Motherwell allow Robinson to interview for Northern Ireland

Motherwell have given manager Stephen Robinson permission to interview for the Northern Ireland manager’s job after the country’s FA made an official approach.

The Irish FA have identified Robinson as a potential candidate to succeed Michael O’Neill and take charge of the international side.

Motherwell say they “reluctantly” gave their consent to talks but remain hopeful the manager will stay in Lanarkshire and continue his successful work with the Fir Park side.

Robinson led the team to a third-place finish in the Premiership this season, earning a place in next season’s Europa League, and he has previously masterminded runs to the finals of the Scottish Cup and League Cup.

In a statement on the club website, a Motherwell spokesperson said: “We have given Stephen Robinson permission to speak to the Irish FA regarding the vacant role of Northern Ireland manager.

“On Tuesday, the governing body sought consent to interview Stephen for the job, which we reluctantly granted.

“We have expressed in the strongest possible terms that we want him to stay with us.

“The work he has done so far to take the club to two national cup finals, bring through young talent and finish third in last season’s Premiership has been exceptional.

“As we prepare to embark on a UEFA Europa League campaign, it is our hope that Stephen will stay to continue the work that has proven so successful.”