Clubs express concerns over Michael O’Neill’s dual role with Northern Ireland and Blackburn Rovers

A number of Championship clubs have reportedly raised concerns regarding Michael O’Neill’s dual managerial role, overseeing both Northern Ireland and Blackburn Rovers. The clubs contacted the league ahead of Northern Ireland’s friendly against Wales on Tuesday night, citing a potential conflict of interest. Their apprehension stems from the possibility that O’Neill could select players from rival teams who are also embroiled in the same Championship relegation battle as Blackburn.

BBC Radio Oxford has indicated that Oxford United, who have four players – Jamie Donley, Ciaron Brown, Jamie McDonnell, and Brodie Spencer – included in O’Neill’s 22-man squad for the upcoming match, are among those to have formally raised the issue. O'Neill said he was "a little bit disappointed" to learn this, saying: “These clubs ask for references on players. They ask for character references, level of performance, from us and our staff when they want to sign these players.

"They were international players when they signed them. Now suddenly it becomes a bit of an issue that they're international players. "If you look at the players in question, you know Isaac played 45 minutes tonight, Ciaron played 60, Jamie played 60 and young Jamie McDonnell didn't play at all.

Terry played a little bit more but he didn't finish both games. "I'll always try to protect the players. I don't want the players coming here and it affecting their club situation.