Michael O’Neill has signed a four-year contract extension to remain manager of the Northern Ireland national football team.

The deal runs until 2032. O’Neill turned down an offer to extend his role at Blackburn Rovers in the Championship.

He cited his commitment to a young Northern Ireland squad aiming to qualify for Euro 2028. O’Neill previously led the team to Euro 2016.

O’Neill named a 23-player squad for upcoming friendlies against Guinea and France. The squad includes first call-ups for 18-year-olds Braiden Graham and Ceadach O’Neill.

Several senior players are unavailable for the matches, including defenders Paddy McNair, Dan Ballard, Terry Devlin and Eoin Toal, as well as goalkeepers Bailey Peacock-Farrell and Conor Hazard.

Midfielders George Saville and Brad Lyons, forward Dion Charles and long-term absentee Conor Bradley are also absent.

Kieran Morrison and Tom Atcheson remain in the squad after recent appearances.