Rodgers wont manage NIreland yet

Nigel Worthington took charge of his final match on Tuesday night as Northern Ireland lost 3-0 to Italy in Pescara. With the position becoming vacant, after Worthington opted to step down, candidates are emerging but County Antrim-born Rodgers will not be among them.

The 38-year-old told the South Wales Evening Post: "Managing Northern Ireland is something I want to do at some point in my career for sure. But hopefully that chance will come towards the end of my career, and I hope that won't be for many years yet."

He added: "It's my country. It's where I'm from, it's where I grew up and it's a country that I love.

"I have got too much energy to be an international manager at the moment. Right now it's not something for me."

While Worthington hopes for a rapid return to club management, the likes of early favourite Jim Magilton, Iain Dowie and Lawrie Sanchez are possible successors.

Rodgers said: "There are a number of candidates who could fit the bill, like Martin O'Neill, although he may want to stay in club management.

"I have a keen interest in the development of the country and I'm sure there will be a number of possible managers who will fit the bill."

Source: PA

Source: PA