Michael O’Neill: ‘One or more clubs’ raise concerns over Blackburn Rovers boss’ dual role

At least one Championship club has raised concerns over a potential conflict of interest involving Northern Ireland and Blackburn Rovers manager Michael O’Neill.

BBC Radio Oxford understands Oxford United are one of those uncomfortable with a situation whereby four of their players could be called on for an international friendly by the manager of another side fighting for Championship survival.

Northern Ireland face Wales on Tuesday with Oxford’s Jamie Donley, Ciaron Brown, Brodie Spencer and Jamie McDonnell all part of the squad.

Blackburn, 19th in the Championship, are four points above the 23rd-placed U’s in the table.

Portsmouth defender Terry Devlin and West Brom midfielder Isaac Price are also in the Northern Ireland squad.

Pompey are one point above the drop zone, while the Baggies are four points clear of the bottom three.

Uncapped Blackburn defender Tom Atcheson is the sole Rovers player picked by O’Neill.

The EFL confirmed they had been contacted by “one or more clubs” regarding the matter but it was not an issue that would be dealt with by them.

They added international call-up and release policy was governed by FIFA and the relevant national association and team and squad selection decisions were made independently by each national association manager.

They said they would expect all selection decisions to be taken with integrity and in a way that does not bring the game into disrepute.

The BBC has contacted the Irish FA, while Oxford United have declined to comment.