‎Michael O’Neill’s Blackburn link ‘Not Well Received’ – McAllister

Northern Ireland supporters’ representative Gary McAllister has admitted that Michael O’Neill’s move to become Blackburn Rovers manager has not been warmly welcomed by fans.

O’Neill is set to take on a dual role, overseeing Championship strugglers Blackburn alongside his Northern Ireland duties until the end of the season after agreeing to a short-term arrangement.

Blackburn currently sit in the relegation zone, while Northern Ireland are preparing for a crucial World Cup play-off semi-final against Italy on 26 March, aiming to qualify for the tournament for the first time in four decades.

McAllister, who chairs the Amalgamation of Official Northern Ireland Supporters’ Clubs, described the development as unexpected.

He noted that while rumours had circulated in recent days, the confirmation still caught many off guard. Judging by the reaction across social media, he said, the decision has not gone down particularly well with a section of the fanbase.

Although he would prefer attention to remain firmly on the upcoming clash in Bergamo, McAllister acknowledged that the timing of the announcement is less than ideal, with only six weeks to go before the play-off. He said the response from supporters was unsurprising given the circumstances.

Despite the unease, McAllister does not believe the situation will affect the atmosphere in Italy. He stressed that Northern Ireland fans remain fiercely loyal and will travel in strong numbers to back the team.

Regardless of who is in charge, he insisted, supporters will continue to stand fully behind the players as they always have.