Wolverhampton Wanderers head coach Gary O’Neil has described himself as ‘unavailable’ for other jobs, amid speculation regarding interest from elsewhere.
When O’Neil was chosen as the replacement for Julen Lopetegui in the summer, it divided opinion among the Wolves fanbase, and that remained the case when Wolves lost to Ipswich Town in the EFL Cup.
In the following game, though, Wolves defeated Manchester City at Molineux and that performance acted as the catalyst for O’Neil to now be regarded as one of the top up-and-coming English managers.
As well as Wolves playing some of the most attractive football in the Premier League, the pre-season relegation candidates are 10th in the table and in contention for European qualification.
Furthermore, Wolves face Coventry City in the FA Cup quarter-finals on March 16, leading to supporters to dream of Wembley, yet reaching that stage of the competition has only intensified talk of admirers for O’Neil.
The Football Association may theoretically target O’Neil if Gareth Southgate leaves his role as England manager later this year, while West Ham United, a former club of O’Neil’s, will be in the market for a new boss if David Moyes does not extend his contract.
Nevertheless, speaking at a press conference on Friday, O’Neil has ruled out the prospect of leaving Molineux, instead acknowledging comments from sporting director Matt Hobbs that conversations will be held over a new deal.
O’Neil said: “I love it here, I’m obviously happy. I love everything we’re trying to do and even the challenges. I’ve loved the reception and relationship I have with the fans.
“When the time comes, the discussions will take place. I’m sure when it comes to it, there won’t be any problems.”
He added: “I’m not aware of any jobs I’ve been linked with. I’m not available. I’m doing the job I want to do. I love what we’re trying to achieve.
As it stands, O’Neil is on a contract until the end of 2025-26, but penned terms with the objective of keeping Wolves in the Premier League.
With the threat of relegation not an issue and Wolves in line to abide by the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules, the goalposts have changed for all parties.
O’Neil and his Wolves side are currently preparing to face Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon
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