Portsmouth's Championship rivals Blackburn Rovers suffer managerial blow
Michael has turned down the opportunity to become Blackburn Rovers boss on a full-time basis
Michael O’Neill has dealt Pompey’s Championship rivals Blackburn Rovers a huge blow just weeks after guiding them to safety.
The 56-year-old has rejected the offer of a three-year deal to remain at Ewood Park and instead decided to remain in sole charge of the Northern Ireland national team.
The former Stoke boss was loaned to Rovers by the Irish Football Association (IFA) in February following their decision to part company with Valerien Ismael - a dual role that caused controversy in the Championship back in March during the international break.
At the time, Rovers sat in the relegation zone following eight games in a row without a win, with O’Neill tasked with securing the former Premier League winner’s Championship status over their remaining 14 matches of the season.
The one-time Newcastle United midfielder successfully achieved that objective as Rovers finished five points above the drop zone in 20th position.
A record of four wins, five draws – including a 1-1 Ewood Park draw against Pompey, who finished 18th – and five defeats was enough to stave off the threat of relegation.
As a result, it was commonly assumed that O’Neill would make the move to Lancashire permanent, after job-sharing the role with his Northern Ireland commitments.
However, it has been announced that he has turned down Blackburn’s offer and will remain with the Windsor Park outfit, whom he is under contract with until 2028. Although a new deal with the IFA is now expected following his shock decision.
A statement from Blackburn read: ‘Following discussions with the club, Michael has decided to continue his long-term commitment to his role as Northern Ireland head coach, with a focus on leading the national team towards qualification for the Uefa European Championships in 2028.’
O’Neill added: ‘Blackburn Rovers is a historic football club with a proud tradition and passionate supporters. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working with the players, staff and everyone around the club.
‘After careful consideration, I have decided that my long-term focus must remain with Northern Ireland and the journey towards the European Championship campaign ahead. I would like to thank the owners, board, staff, players and supporters for the welcome and support shown to me during my time at the club.’
O’Neill’s decision represents a huge blow for Blackburn, who were keen for the Northern Irishman to help build a new era at Ewood Park.
They’ll now have to assess their options to determine who leads the club during the 2025-26 campaign and further afield. For
It’s a position Pompey themselves could well find themselves in in the near future as John Mousinho’s future at Fratton Park remains up in the air amid interest from Bristol City.
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