League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Coaching

We can't change the rules' - O'Neill addresses player eligibility

5 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 9:01 PM

Last updated Sep 15, 2026

We can't change the rules' - O'Neill addresses player eligibility

Summary

Michael O'Neill, manager of Northern Ireland, discussed the future of Arsenal player Ceadach O'Neill during an interview with BBC Sport NI. Ceadach has been named in the Northern Ireland squad for upcoming Nations League matches. O'Neill emphasized the importance of adhering to existing eligibility rules amidst speculation regarding the player's international future. The conversation highlights ongoing considerations related to player nationality and representation ahead of the matches.

Source Links

BBC Sport BBC Football

Key Details

•Michael O'Neill speaks on Ceadach O'Neill's eligibility in BBC interview.
•Ceadach O'Neill included in Northern Ireland squad for Nations League fixtures.
•O'Neill stresses that rules regarding player eligibility cannot be altered.
•Speculation surrounds O'Neill's international future continues ahead of key matches.

Latest Updates

9:01 PMBBC Sport — NI squad only picked on merit - O'Neill
2:14 PMBBC Sport — Eligibility rules 'not particularly fair' - O'Neill
12:43 PMBBC Football — 'We can't change the rules' - O'Neill on NI/ROI eligibility

What they're saying

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Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill speaks to BBC Sport NI's Stephen Watson about speculation regarding Arsenal youngster Ceadach O'Neill's international future as he is named in the NI squad for their upcoming Nations League fixtures.
— BBC Football

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Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill says what upsets him the most regarding rules over international eligibility is the pressure put on young players to make an irreversible choice.
— BBC Sport