Northern Irishman Johnathan McKinstry on his epic managerial journey that spanned Africa

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A combination of hard work, preparation and self-belief are key for any managerial career but in the case of Johnathan McKinstry, the ability to adapt and take risks have been equally fundamental.

In 2013, the Northern Irishman – then aged 27 - brought a meticulously researched dossier into an interview for his first senior managerial role and by the end of the selection process, Sierra Leone confirmed him as the youngest manager in international football.

McKinstry had moved to the Western African nation three years earlier, being appointed technical director of the Craig Bellamy academy after being an academy coach with the New York Red Bulls.

He immersed himself in the culture of Sierra Leone, spoke Creole and watched its football and players religiously, so when Lars-Olof Mattson resigned as the nation’s head coach – McKinstry was well-placed to secure his first managerial break.

“It was the case of being in the right place at the right time,” he recalled to Mirror Football.

“I was living and working in the country, I knew the language and had been following the team and the players closely – so there were minimal logistical costs for the FA to say yes to me.

“For a coach you always need that little bit of luck for your first break, but you never know when these opportunities will crop up and you have to be prepared to accept them when they arise.

“Sometimes you think you would be much better suited to the job in one