Stoke City manager Michael O'Neill has stepped down as boss of Northern Ireland and won't lead them into the European Championship play off against Bosnia.
50 year old O'Neill was set to be in charge for the encounter against Bosnia back in March, but that game was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
It is seen as too complicated for O'Neill to combine his club and international duties, so after over eight successful years in charge, the former Shamrock Rovers manager has decided to step aside.
Northern Ireland will have a Windsor Park play off final against either the Republic of Ireland or Slovakia to look forward to should they overcome Bosnia.
During the international autumn calendar, if matches return, they are facing Nations League games against Romania, Norway and Austria as well as the play off semi-final, which prompted O'Neill's decision.
Michael O'Neill brought Northern Ireland to Euro 2016 and they narrowly missed out on qualification for the 2018 World Cup.
In a statement released today, he said:
“I would have loved the opportunity to manage Northern Ireland in the Uefa 2020 play-off game versus Bosnia and Herzegovina and the chance to qualify for another major tournament, but the current situation means that this is no longer possible.
“It was important to leave the association and team in the strongest possible shape in order to not only have the best chance of qualifying for Euro 2021, but allow the new manager time to build upon the success that we have had during my eight-year tenure.
“Throughout my time here, I have been fortunate to have worked with many great coaching, medical and support staff who have all contributed to our successes and shared in some great moments.
“As for my players, past and present, I would like to thank them all for an overwhelming level of commitment and professionalism that has helped to deliver so many unforgettable highs and great experiences for us all.
“I would also like to thank everyone at the Irish FA who have made the job a wonderful experience and especially Patrick Nelson (CEO), Leslie Caul and Gerry Mallon (IFA chairmen), Jim Shaw and David Martin (IFA Presidents) who have always been a great source of support.
“Finally, to the fans, thank you. It has been an honour and an enormous privilege to have had the opportunity to manage my country and I will treasure my time as manager of Northern Ireland forever. The support you have provided myself and the team over the years has been incredibly humbling.”
