Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill in talks over Championship job in unique job share

Blackburn Rovers are in talks with the Irish Football Association over potentially appointing Michael O’Neill, talkSPORT understands.

A potential job share alongside his national team role has been touted as a possible option.

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O’Neill’s current contract as Northern Ireland manager runs until summer 2028.

Rovers are without a manager after sacking Valerien Ismael earlier this month.

The Green and White Army are currently preparing for next month’s World Cup play-offs.

They face Italy in Bergamo on March 26, with the winner taking on Wales or Bosnia & Herzegovina for a place at the finals.

Northern Ireland are aiming to qualify for their fourth World Cup and a first since 1986.

O’Neill is in his second spell in charge after returning to the role in December 2022.

His first tenure saw him secure qualification for Euro 2016, ending a 30-year wait to reach a major tournament.

However, that stint in the dugout ended five months after he took over as Stoke City manager.

O’Neill initially shared his national team responsibilities alongside his role with the Potters.

The 56-year-old ultimately stepped down as Northern Ireland boss in April 2020, though.

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In three years with Stoke, he was unable to secure a top-half finish in the Championship before being sacked in August 2022.

O’Neill was re-appointed by the national team four months later and has remained at the helm since.

His managerial career has also included spells in Scotland and the Republic of Ireland with Brechin City and Shamrock Rovers, respectively.

Blackburn manager search

Gary Rowett is also a contender for the vacant role at Ewood Park, talkSPORT revealed this week.

The former Oxford United boss is without a club after he was sacked in December.

However, former Rovers midfielder Robbie Savage has rubbished claims linking him with a return.

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Reading boss Leam Richardson had also been shortlisted following Ismael’s exit.

Blackburn currently sit a point from safety in 22nd after winning one of their last 10 Championship matches.

The club is looking to avoid dropping into League One for the first time since winning promotion at the first attempt in 2018.

Rovers travel to face Queens Park Rangers on Saturday ahead of a Lancashire derby at home to Preston North End on February 20.