Michael O'Neill to Aberdeen FC would break Northern Irish hearts AGAIN as Josh Magennis makes Pittodrie plea

Josh Magennis knows exactly why Michael O’Neill is being linked with the Aberdeen job - but he hopes his Northern Ireland boss doesn’t break his heart for a second time.

The experienced boss, who masterminded Tuesday’s 1-0 win over Scotland, has admirers in the Pittodrie boardroom for the job he has done with Northern Ireland. The Dons are in the process of appointing Barry Robson’s successor but former Don Magennis is confident O’Neill will stay where he is - after previously quitting the international team for an ill-fated spell at Stoke City.

The Northern Irish striker admitted: “I know, I have seen him linked with Aberdeen. When you are doing well and are successful there is no doubt that a light shines on you. Listen, I don’t want to lose him (O’Neill) for a second time. It broke my heart the first time. Michael is not daft and he knows his way around.

“It is not just the lure of Aberdeen. Aberdeen is one of the biggest clubs in Scotland with a great history. He will take everything into account and will look at everything from head to toe if that becomes an option.

"Only he will know if it is the right move. “I don’t want him to go personally. I like him and I hope he likes me because he picks me.”

The 33-year-old has fond memories from his time at Aberdeen from 2010 to 2014. The former keeper turned striker was signed by Mark McGhee and then went on to play under Craig Brown and then Derek McInnes. Magennis hopes the next manager can bring some stability and get them back up challenging for the main prizes in Scotland again.

“It is not good to see Aberdeen in the position they are,” Magennis insisted. “Hopefully, they pick a manager that gets them back where they should be, at the top of Scottish football and as