WATCH: Michael O'Neill on interest from domestic clubs ... as Stoke ask IFA for permission to speak to him
Northern Ireland boss says he is 'in no hurry' to leave
The IFA has confirmed Stoke City have asked for permission to speak to Michael O’Neill about the vacant manager’s job.
It is no secret the Championship side have made it a priority to target the Northern Ireland boss.
O’Neill addresses the interest as a guest on our latest BetMcLean football show, now available to view on Cool FM’s Facebook page (see link below)and to download as a podcast.
“I have a great relationship here with the Association (IFA) and we have been very honest and open," he said.
"If, in terms of a club situation is presented and it meets the conditions of my contract then it will be down to me whether or not I explore that opportunity."
O’Neill also said that he was “not in any hurry” to leave the NI job.
And he said that his main challenge was to prepare his players as meticulously as possible for the two games that will decide their Euros future
But he believes ultimately it will be down to individual confidence
"I do think we go into the game well prepared – I do think we have a good game plan," he said
" I do think we give them the right information without overburdening them and give them the chance to go and perform.
"But I think the belief comes from themselves if I’m honest.”
O'Neill has picked an unchanged squad for the double header with Netherlands and Germany
And he is confident he has made the right decision
"We go with the same 25 players that have served us well and unfortunately Connor Washington or Jordan Jones are not ready yet to come into contention," he added.
Also guesting alongside O’Neill is Glentoran’s exciting young midfielder Navid Nasseri.