Hybrid, a leader and wrestling - get to know NI boss McArdle

When the announcement was made that Michael McArdle was the new Northern Ireland boss, few fans had heard of the former Scottish manager. The Glaswegian was revealed as Tanya Oxtoby's replacement in March after she left to become first team coach at Newcastle United in November. McArdle will aim to guide Northern Ireland to their first World Cup with his opening task the double header qualifier against Malta.

With Tuesday's game at Mourneview just around the corner, BBC Sport NI takes a look at what we know so far about the new NI boss. Hybrid approach Just like Michael O'Neill, McArdle will be based in Scotland during his tenure as Northern Ireland manager. McArdle, who took charge of Scotland for four matches last year on an interim basis, will remain in Glasgow - a decision he believes will help NI.

"The benefit is because a lot of girls are playing in the domestic game in the UK, I am in a good position to stay in Scotland and watch some of the girls play," McArdle said. 17 players of the last NI squad play their football in England or Scotland with just five based in Northern Ireland, four from Glentoran and one from Linfield. However, he added he will also make effort to watch those who play in the Irish Premiership as well.

"I'll be around NIFL [Women's Premiership] quite a lot on a Friday evenings, and also speaking to players a lot in between camps as well. " Coaching staff to remain mostly the same Following Oxtoby's departure, Kris Lindsay was appointed as interim NI boss before McArdle became the Australian's permanent successor. McArdle is set to keep the majority of the coaching staff the same as he looks to build momentum ahead of the Malta double header.