Eligibility rules 'not particularly fair' - O'Neill

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill has stated that he selects his international squad based solely on merit, asserting that he does not factor FIFA eligibility rules into his decision-making process. His comments follow discussions regarding the complexities of international player eligibility and the impact these regulations have on athletes.

O'Neill expressed specific concern regarding the pressure placed on young players to make permanent international commitments. He characterized the current eligibility framework as not particularly fair, highlighting the difficulty of forcing individuals to make irreversible choices early in their careers.