Blackburn Rovers face the possibility of losing one of their most promising players in the Premier League after the arrival of Michael O’Neill.
O’Neill ‘grateful’ for Blackburn opportunity
With time running out to save the season, Blackburn decided to sack manager Valerian Ismael and asked Northern Ireland manager O’Neill to share the role and keep the team in the Championship.
The appointment was to be controversial given how hopeless Rovers’ position is and O’Neill’s dual responsibilities in two different jobs, but the veteran manager nevertheless struck a deal on the dotted line.
After agreeing a short-term deal, O’Neill told the club’s website: “I would like to thank the Football Association of Ireland for their support and cooperation in giving me this opportunity.
“Blackburn Rovers are a historic Premier League winning club with a proud tradition and the opportunity to work for such a prestigious club felt important to me.
“The immediate focus is clear: there will be challenges in the final stages of the season and the aim is to help the team build momentum and move up in the Championship.
“From a professional point of view, it’s always valuable to get back on the training pitch every day and take part in the rhythm of matches and club football. It keeps you sharp and connected to the demands of the game at this level.”
“For now, my focus is to give my all to Blackburn Rovers over the coming weeks. I know what this club means to our supporters and I look forward to working with the players and staff to deliver a performance that our fans can be proud of.”
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The 56-year-old won’t have to waste any time turning things around on and off the pitch, and he may still have a chance to convince one player to stay.
TeamTalk reports that Arsenal and Manchester United have made contact to sign Igor Tyjon from Blackburn this summer as he has run out of time on his current contract.
As it stands, the teenager is set to leave as a free agent this summer, which will be a huge blow for the Lancashire men. Tyjon is regarded as one of the Championship’s most promising players and the widespread interest from the Premier League is no surprise.
It’s a crushing blow for O’Neill, who has managed to get by without any transfer noise at the beginning of his crucial short tenure. Meanwhile, in the long term, there is no doubt that Blackburn will lose a quality talent who has received impressive praise at Ewood Park.
“He’s had a great pre-season. He just played for England this week. I was delighted to be able to give him his debut today.”
“He’s worked very, very hard. He’s a 16-year-old boy and we have to remember that. He’s definitely a player for the future,” said former manager John Eustace.
The 17-year-old forward appears to have the world at his feet and could be a player to watch this summer to see if he secures a move from Blackburn.
