Northern Ireland job 'attractive' to Michael O'Neill

Shamrock Rovers boss Michael O'Neill has entered the race to become the new Northern Ireland manager after saying the job was "very attractive".

The former international midfielder added that his future was "up in the air" and that he would consider "anything that comes along".

BBC Sport understands that the Irish FA will begin to approach prospective candidates for the job next week.

O'Neill, Jim Magilton and Iain Dowie appear the main candidates for the job.

Others who could be in the frame include former manager Lawrie Sanchez.

The Shamrock Rovers manager's comments come less than a fortnight after he said he wanted to remain at the Dublin club.

Magilton is current O'Neill's assistant at Shamrock Rovers.

O'Neill insisted earlier this month he was not looking to leave Rovers after leading them to another League of Ireland title and a Europa League group stage place.

He is currently in discussions with Shamrock Rovers over a new contract and has also been linked with the vacant job at his former club Hibs.

The IFA is understood to be keen to have a new manager in place for the friendly game against Norway in February.