Several Championship clubs have raised concerns about Michael O’Neill’s dual role as manager of Northern Ireland and Blackburn Rovers, citing a potential conflict of interest ahead of Northern Ireland’s friendly against Wales. The clubs contacted the league over fears O’Neill could select players from rival teams battling relegation alongside Blackburn.
Oxford United, who have four players in O’Neill’s 22-man squad, are among those to have formally raised the issue. O’Neill expressed disappointment, stating that clubs had previously asked for references on the same players and that he always prioritises players’ club situations.
Blackburn sit 19th in the Championship, four points above 23rd-placed Oxford. Other players in O’Neill’s squad include Portsmouth’s Terry Devlin and West Brom’s Isaac Price, while uncapped Blackburn teenager Tom Atcheson is the sole Rovers representative.
The EFL said international selection is a matter for FIFA and not within its jurisdiction, but expects all decisions to be taken with integrity. O’Neill, who has faced questions since taking the Blackburn job six weeks ago, said he was “fed up” of being asked about his future.
