The appointment of the new Northern Ireland Under-21 manager is a damning indictment of the coaching system in this country. From a Northern Ireland perspective, it must be worrying and concerning that this country obviously does not possess a candidate who is a serious challenger for the Under-21s. So why does the Irish FA have to consistently look outside this country for managers? Each year, the Irish FA run coaching courses to attain ‘B’, ‘A’ and Pro Licences and turnout is high amongst local candidates. Either Northern Ireland coaches aren’t being given a chance or the current crop simply do not measure up.

Source: Daily Nation August 01, 2021 00:56 UTC