Boss Jim Magilton says he would be keen on the Northern Ireland coach's job — but only on a part-time basis. Lawrie Sanchez left his position as boss of the Northern Irish side, currently top of the Euro 2008 group, to take over full-time at Fulham 10 days ago.

Magilton said: "I would love to manage Northern Ireland, but at the minute, if it was full-time, I would have to say no.

"I do think it could be done on a part-time basis but that would really be for the Irish FA to decide."

The Town boss says Sanchez's successor will be inheriting a side on the up: "I think the Irish FA will be disappointed that Lawrie Sanchez has left at this time.

"The team is on a high, but that only makes it better for whoever comes in.

"There are two ways of looking at it. The new manager could be made a scapegoat if the team doesn't go on to qualify for the European Championship, but on the other hand he has a great opportunity to make himself a hero.”

If the Irish FA do want Magilton to succeed Sanchez on a part-time basis, they would require the permission of Town, something which might not necessarily be forthcoming.

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