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Belfast Live
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Gareth Fullerton

Michael O'Neill confirmed as new Northern Ireland boss on bumper long-term deal

Michael O'Neill has been confirmed as Northern Ireland's new boss on a mammoth five-and-a-half-year deal.

O'Neill was unveiled at a press conference on Wednesday at Windsor Park.

The 53-year-old returns for a second spell in charge after leading the team from December 2011 to April 2020.

Read more: Michael O'Neill appointment a no brainer for ex-NI striker Dowie

During that time he guided Northern Ireland to the Euro 2016 finals in France, the country's first major tournament in 30 years.

Northern Ireland also narrowly missed out on qualifying for the 2018 World Cup following a controversial play-off defeat to Switzerland.

O'Neill - who will work closely with the IFA's Technical Director and former NI captain Aaron Hughes - said: "I am delighted to be the Northern Ireland senior men's team manager.

"I am excited to see what can be achieved with this group of players and can't wait to be in front of the Green and White Army at the National Stadium once again."

O'Neill became Stoke City manager in November 2019 but remained as Northern Ireland boss in a dual role until resigning in April 2020.

He would remain with the Potters for almost three years before he was sacked in August this year.

O'Neill - who had a 36 per cent win rate during his first spell as manager - was the Irish FA's number one target following the dismissal of Ian Baraclough in October, and now they have their man.

IFA President Conrad Kirkwood said: "I believe Michael is the right man for the job. He comes to the role this time with the benefit of even more experience at both international and domestic level, which will have only added to his skill set and experience.

"With a positive Euro 2024 qualifying draw I have no doubt the Green and White Army will get behind him and his team."

IFA Chief Executive Patrick Nelson said: "Michael is back and here for the long run. We are focused immediately on the upcoming UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying campaign which starts in March 2023, but beyond that there is so much to look forward to, including the UEFA Euro 2028 tournament where we will hopefully be co-hosting as part of a successful UK and Ireland bid."

The former Shamrock Rovers manager will now look ahead to the upcoming European qualifying campaign, with Northern Ireland drawn in the same group as Denmark, Finland, Slovenia, Kazakhstan and San Marino.

The opening fixtures in that campaign kick-off next March.

Check out Belfast Live for more reaction throughout the day...

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