Rodgers won't manage N.Ireland yet

12 October 2011 14:35

Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers has ruled himself out of contention to become the next Northern Ireland manager.

Nigel Worthington took charge of his final match on Tuesday night as Northern Ireland lost 3-0 to Italy in Pescara. With the position becoming vacant, after Worthington opted to step down, candidates are emerging but County Antrim-born Rodgers will not be among them.

The 38-year-old told the South Wales Evening Post: "Managing Northern Ireland is something I want to do at some point in my career for sure. But hopefully that chance will come towards the end of my career, and I hope that won't be for many years yet."

He added: "It's my country. It's where I'm from, it's where I grew up and it's a country that I love.

"I have got too much energy to be an international manager at the moment. Right now it's not something for me."

While Worthington hopes for a rapid return to club management, the likes of early favourite Jim Magilton, Iain Dowie and Lawrie Sanchez are possible successors.

Rodgers said: "There are a number of candidates who could fit the bill, like Martin O'Neill, although he may want to stay in club management.

"I have a keen interest in the development of the country and I'm sure there will be a number of possible managers who will fit the bill."

Source: PA