Michael O’Neill: Why did the Northern Ireland boss extend his contract after interest from Blackburn Rovers?

While O’Neal didn’t make it clear in his press conference that he would be open to another short-term dual role going forward, he didn’t rule it out either.

He admitted that he “underestimated” the fuss surrounding taking on both roles and added that he “could probably do 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 in the long term – but said there was “strings on both sides”.

“I signed here for four years. You do it because you want to stay four years,” he said.

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

“I’m looking forward to next week’s games and obviously getting the squad going for the Nations League games in September.”

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

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

“I’m not actively looking for another opportunity. There’s always going to be speculation. That’s a sign you’re doing a decent job.

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