'We have only six counties to choose from, the Republic has 32' - Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill on the battle for best soccer talent in Ireland... and why the North are winning

Northern Ireland manager O'Neill discusses the challenge of developing talent with a smaller player pool than the Republic of Ireland.

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill has highlighted the competitive disadvantage his side faces in recruiting young talent, with only six counties to draw from compared to the Republic's 32. Despite this constraint, O'Neill emphasizes the importance of equipping young players with the right education and tools when they move to clubs, suggesting the North's focused approach is yielding results in the battle for Irish soccer talent.