US EditionEFL Confirms 'One or More Clubs' Raise Concerns over Michael O'Neill Role
At least one club contacted the EFL, saying O'Neill could pick players from teams fighting Blackburn in the Championship relegation battle.
- Several Championship clubs contacted The EFL ahead of Tuesday's Northern Ireland friendly against Wales, raising concerns over Michael Neill's dual role managing both Northern Ireland and Blackburn Rovers.
- Apprehension stems from potential conflicts of interest, as Neill could select players from rival Championship teams competing against Blackburn in the same relegation battle. Oxford United formally raised the issue.
- Oxford United has four players—Jamie Donley, Ciaron Brown, Jamie McDonnell, and Brodie Spencer—in Neill's 22-man squad for Tuesday's match. Portsmouth and West Brom players are also included.
- The EFL indicated international selection is a matter for FIFA, not within their jurisdiction, though they expect all decisions taken with integrity and not to bring the game into disrepute.
- Neill, who said on Monday he was "fed up" of questions about his future, will resume Blackburn duties on Wednesday following the dead-rubber friendly against Wales.
15 Articles
15 Articles
Championship manager sparks outrage with controversial Northern Ireland decision as EFL clubs complain
Michael O'Neill has expressed his frustration after discovering that several Championship clubs approached the English Football League about his combined role as Northern Ireland and Blackburn Rovers manager.The 56-year-old expressed particular dismay that no club official contacted him personally before escalating their concerns.Following Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Wales in Cardiff, O'Neill said: "If I'm honest, I'm a little bit disappointed."Thes…
O'Neill 'disappointed' as Championship rivals protest
Michael O'Neill said he was "a little bit disappointed" to learn that a number of Championship clubs had contacted the English Football League to raise concerns over his dual role as manager of Northern Ireland and Blackburn.
The Independent
The Independent (US)Clubs express concerns over O’Neill’s role with Northern Ireland and Blackburn Rovers
Blackburn, 19th in the Championship, are four points above Oxford, 23rd, in the table
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