Surprising Michael O’Neill update shared as Stoke City hierarchy weigh up big decision

Michael O’Neill could remain at the club in a different role even if he does lose his job as manager.

The former Northern Ireland chief is under serious pressure due to a poor campaign for the Potters, with his side sitting 16th in the Championship table despite having been expected to push for promotion.

Therefore, the hierarchy have a big decision to make ahead of next season as to whether O’Neill remains in charge, and reports have suggested that Daniel Farke is emerging as a possible replacement.

Interestingly though, the Mirror, who shared the news about Stoke’s interest in the German, also added that the club could keep O’Neill on if a change in the dugout is made.

“It is even possible O’Neill could stay on at the club by moving upstairs into an advisory or recruitment role if he is relieved of first team duties.”

A decision on the future of the 52-year-old is unlikely to be made in the summer, with Stoke back in action when they host Millwall tomorrow.

The verdict

This would be a very strange decision and it’s one that would surely concern the Stoke City support.

That’s not to say that O’Neill wouldn’t do a good job in either of those roles, but it would be odd for the new manager to have him in that role and could cause confusion off the pitch.

Obviously, this is only a rumour but if Stoke do appoint a new manager then they should have a say in who is above them and there are specialists out there for those roles that would seem better fits.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.

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