Michael O’Neill: David Healy will go from fighting for silverware to survival mode if he leaves Linfield
Michael O'Neill left Shamrock Rovers to take over for his first stint as Northern Ireland boss
David Healy is reportedly on the radar of League Two strugglers Grimsby Town
Michael O’Neill says David Healy’s managerial career will need to go into ‘survival mode’ when he leaves Linfield, while the Northern Ireland boss has defended his decision not to select in-form Blues winger Joel Cooper in his squad.
It is understood ambitious Healy is on the radar of League Two side Grimsby Town, who have a managerial vacancy, and the interest has flattered the Linfield boss.
However, the former Northern Ireland striker says he remains committed to the Blues ahead of Saturday’s heavyweight Premiership clash at home to champions Larne.
Grimsby are flirting with relegation in 21st place and O’Neill feels it’s the type of challenge Healy can expect when he walks away from Linfield.
Former Glentoran midfielder O’Neill left Shamrock Rovers to take charge of Northern Ireland and when he left for Stoke City in 2019 his mission was survival with the club bottom of the Championship.
Healy’s eight years at Linfield have featured five League titles and two Irish Cup triumphs, however success could be harder to attain in his next post.
“An opportunity may have been there in the past but he’s had a hugely successful eight years at Linfield and he’s had a brilliant career here and won a lot,” said former Brechin City boss O’Neill.
“The reality of the situation is that if he does take that step you look at Grimsby, they are a few places off the bottom and he won’t be going there to win trophies.
“He would go there to survive and that’s the nature of the opportunities that arise. It’s the same at St Johnstone in Scotland as they appoint Craig Levein.
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