Michael O’Neill: Why did Northern Ireland boss extend deal after Blackburn Rovers interest?

While O’Neill did not explicitly say in his press conference he would be open to another short-term dual role going forward, he also did not rule it out.

He has admitted he “underestimated” the noise surrounding him taking on both roles, and added that “probably could have done with a little less drama”.

Speaking to BBC Sport NI ahead of June’s friendlies with Guinea and France, he reiterated his commitment to Northern Ireland for the long term – but did say there are “clauses on both sides”.

“I’ve signed here for four years. You do that with the intention of staying four years,” he said.

“You never know what can happen in football. There’s always clauses on both sides of a contract for both the IFA and for myself, but my focus is here.

“I look forward to the games next week and obviously building the squad forward into the Nations League games in September.”

O’Neill says that while he doesn’t “want constant speculation about my situation”, it’s in the nature of management in football, and he pointed to Scotland boss Steve Clarke and Wales manager Craig Bellamy also being linked to club jobs in the past.

“It’s something that is happening elsewhere, it’s not just happening with me.

“I’m not out there actively looking for other opportunities. There will always be speculation. It’s a sign that you’re doing a decent job.

“I’m just looking forward to continuing in this role and continuing to work with the IFA.”