O´Neill named Northern Ireland manager

Michael O’Neill has been announced as the new manager of the Northern Ireland national side.

O’Neill takes over from former manager Nigel Worthington, who failed to guide Northern Ireland to Euro 2012, taking only nine points from 10 games in qualification.

The former Newcastle player will begin his two-year contract in February, with his first game in charge to be against Norway later that month.

O’Neill told the Irish FA’s official website: “I am honoured to be chosen to manage my country. I am a proud Northern Irishman who was fortunate enough to win 33 senior caps and it was always an ambition to manage my country.”

“To be entrusted with the role early in my managerial career is quite humbling but I am confident that we can make progress. Northern Ireland has a strong football tradition but one that needs to be refreshed with some more contemporary success.”

“That is my primary objective – to restore a sense of belief and pride in what it means to represent Northern Ireland so that our players will want only to play for their country. That is how it should be.”

The 42-year-old’s success with Irish club Shamrock Rovers, in which he guided them to the group stages of the Europa League, was a key factor behind the decision to hand O’Neill the post, Irish FA president Jim Shaw revealed.

“I am delighted that Michael has accepted the role of managing our senior international team and I would like to wish him every success as he prepares for the World Cup qualifying campaign next year,” Shaw said.