WATCH: "Business as usual" - O'Neill says his focus still on NI job
Football's most wanted man guests on Part One of Cool FM Facebook Show's Big Christmas special
Last updated 15th Dec 2017
EXCLUSIVE
Michael O’Neill has opened up about his future – and revealed, as far as he is concerned, it is “business as usual”.
In an exclusive interview with Cool FM, the Northern Ireland boss says he’s very much focused on his current job – despite the ongoing speculation linking him to a move to Scotland.
Speaking on our Facebook Show Christmas special, O’Neill revealed he was speaking to the IFA about his future.
It is understood a six-year extension to his contract is on the table.
“People need to realise that even if you speak to someone it does not necessarily mean you are going to leave the job you are in,” he said.
“I am also speaking to the IFA about the future as well – it is the nature of football management now.
“You can’t find out about a job unless you talk to somebody about it.”
O’Neill said he was surprised somewhat by the approach of the SFA given the fact he still had a contract with the IFA and was still very much at the NI helm.
“The conditions that are in that contract permit me to speak to people if things are done properly,” he told us.
“The IFA and I have a really good relationship
“I am a little surprised they’ve gone about it the way they have but at this moment in time until I have been given permission to speak to anyone, I am firmly focused on the job.”
And the 48-year-old who lives in Edinburgh, said there was much work to do in his present role.
“You are getting around the games again, starting to focus on the players, starting to look ahead in terms of what games we have in place, the next international game is March, the following international date is in the summer – there is a lot to think about going forward
“There has been a lot of speculation about my future but it is business as usual.”
O’Neill also revealed he was not interested in a Premiership job but did admit he was a massive fan of the Champions League.
He also talks about his time in the Irish League with Coleraine before moving to Newcastle and then his return with Glentoran.
In addition, O’Neill names his five-a-side dream team and of the best player he played against.
You can view all of the Big Interview right now on Cool's Facebook Page.
Definitely one not to be missed. Press play (below)