Blackburn Rovers will focus their management search on Michael O’Neil as talks with Gary Rowett begin to stall, as reported by Alan Nixon via his Patreon.
Blackburn Rovers have adopted a patient approach in their search for a new head coach. Valerien Ismael was fired on deadline day, with Damien Johnson taking charge on an interim basis.
A number of candidates have been considered, but in recent days it has emerged that Gary Rowett is the leading contender. Michael O’Neill and Neil Harris have been explored as alternative options, but Rovers had stepped up their efforts to secure Rowett.
However, despite details of their contract offer emerging, talks with Rowett are starting to stall Alan Nixon via his Patreon. As such, Nixon has claimed that Rovers have turned to previously linked O’Neill.
O’Neil is currently preparation for World Cup qualifiers with Northern Ireland next month. That means any deal for him to join Rovers would be on a part-time basis.
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O’Neill is perhaps best known for his two spells in charge of Northern Ireland. However, he was also at the helm of Stoke City for almost three years.
The Portadown native proved a steady hand at the Bet365 Stadium. With the club facing significant PSR problems following relegation, O’Neill was able to manage the difficult conditions well and ensure the Potters retained their Championship status.
His tenure ultimately stalled when it came to taking the club to the next level. Yet the vast majority of followers continue to appreciate his work during a period of uncertainty, and he is widely regarded as an important figure in their recent history.
Given the instability at Rovers, O’Neill could be a smart appointment. However, with Northern Ireland facing a crucial World Cup play-off qualifier against Italy in March, it could be a challenge to convince him to step down from his current role.
Michael O’Neill’s record as Stoke City boss
Robbers take a big risk on slow management searches
Blackburn Rovers have never been a club to rush into management appointments, and that approach remains unchanged.
That said, they need to speed things up. There is every chance that the former Oxford United boss would be reluctant to take on a role at a side under threat of relegation as there is uncertainty over matters off the pitch, and that seems more likely by the day.
For now, Damien Johnson will remain in interim charge, but how long that arrangement will last remains to be seen. Rovers travel to QPR on Saturday before hosting Preston North End in a crucial Lancashire derby.
They are currently 22nd in the table, within the bottom three on goal difference.
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