Gary O’Neil: The Dark Horse Candidate for England Job?
The news of Gareth Southgate’s resignation as England manager sent shockwaves across the football world. With several big names already linked to the role, a surprising candidate has emerged from the pack. Gary O’Neil, Wolves’ manager, has been praised by the club’s sporting director, Matt Hobbs, as an ideal candidate for the England job.
While the likes of Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, and Ange Postecoglou have been touted as top contenders, O’Neil’s unassuming reputation has piqued interest. The 47-year-old has impressed in his brief managerial stint at Wolves, guiding the team to an 11th-place finish in the Premier League. His tactical acumen, defensive solidity, and ability to improve players have all been touted as reasons why he could succeed at the highest level.
O’Neil’s stock has risen in recent months, and Hobbs believes the Football Association would be foolish not to consider him. "They should be looking at him," Hobbs told Sky Sports. "I get it, he’s excellent, and I’d be surprised if clubs weren’t looking at him." Hobbs also acknowledged that the FA will likely explore other options, not because they want O’Neil to leave, but because it’s "the prudent thing to do."
In a fascinating twist, Newcastle United chief executive Darren Eales has thrown his weight behind Eddie Howe, stating the club will resist any approaches from the FA. "We’re on an exciting journey, and Eddie is the man to lead us on that," Eales said in a BBC interview. "We love him, and we’re committed to a long-term deal with him."
The race for the England job is heating up, with several candidates vying for the position. Gary O’Neil, while not the most obvious choice, has undoubtedly earned his place in the conversation. Can he prove himself to be a shrewd choice, or will one of the other high-profile candidates take the reins? Follow us on all social media platforms for more updates and analysis as this story continues to unfold.