Ian Baraclough has broken his silence after being sacked as Northern Ireland manager last month.
The 51-year-old's tenure as international boss ended following another disappointing UEFA Nations League campaign which saw his side pick up just five points from six games.
Baraclough has opened up on his departure 28 days after leaving the Irish FA, highlighting some of the "challenges" he faced including the Covid-19 pandemic and injuries to key players.
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In a statement released through the League Managers’ Association, Baraclough said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Irish Football Association for the opportunity to work as manager of the senior men’s national team.
“Whilst I am disappointed to be leaving my role, this special country has given me some memories I will never forget. From May 2017 to June 2020, I was privileged to lead the Under-21s, finishing second in our qualifying group for the 2019 Euro Under-21s Championships, beating Spain and Iceland away from home along the way.
"While those results were unforgettable, what is most satisfying is seeing players from that group progress to play for the senior side, and to continue to develop at their clubs.
“To be appointed as the national team manager in June 2020 was one of the greatest moments of my professional career to date.”
Baraclough added: “My time at the helm was not without challenges; the Covid-19 pandemic, injuries to key players, and a squad in transition were all factors we had to accept and work with. I do think now that the squad are ready to take the next step on this journey and qualify for another major tournament.
“I take pride from the contribution my staff and I have made collectively, building on the work of Michael O’Neill and his colleagues, and handing over to the next person to lead this great nation.”
Baraclough praised the Green and White Army for their support throughout his time at the helm, despite some supporters calling for his exit during the latest Nations League campaign.
“Managers are custodians, and the only certainty is that one day you will leave your role, but moments like the win over Bosnia and holding an exceptional Italy side to a draw will stay with me," he added.
“I would like to thank the supporters who, after the difficulties of Covid-19, followed us in great numbers around Europe, and continued to make Windsor Park a difficult place for other nations to visit.
“I have made many friends and have enjoyed the famous warmth and hospitality of the people of Northern Ireland. The country will hold a special place in my heart and I will always look out for their results and will be a GAWA supporter for life."
Baraclough was promoted from the Under 21s in June 2020 to replace Michael O'Neill, the man who is being tipped to return to the Northern Ireland hot-seat.
Since replacing O'Neill, Baraclough won only six of his 28 games in charge inside 90 minutes, also beating Bosnia & Herzegovina on penalties, missing out on both the Covid-delayed Euro 2020 and this year’s World Cup.
In the most recent Nations League campaign Baraclough had one win from six, and five points from a possible 18.
“I would like to personally thank all of my staff at both senior and Under-21 level who gave me their full commitment and professionalism throughout my time at the association. They are outstanding individuals and it has been a pleasure to work alongside them for the past five and a half years," Baraclough added in his statement.
“A special mention should go to the group of players I have worked with over the past five and a half years. The experience of working with the young talent of Northern Ireland, through to the elite senior players has been a real joy and positive for me.
“I will take great pride in watching these young players develop into established internationals and having a great impact for Northern Ireland in future World Cups and Euros.
“I look forward to the next step of my coaching journey. I am energised and motivated to learn from this experience and to succeed in my next challenge.”
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