Northern Ireland fans have a key role to play insists outgoing boss Michael O'Neill

Windsor Park has built up a reputation in world football as one of the noisiest venues.

But O’Neill says that despite the fans’ efforts some players didn’t like playing at the National Stadium until it was redeveloped.

The 50-year-old knows how important home advantage is and has called on the fans to carry that on under the new manager.

“I remember from the outset some players weren’t keen playing in Belfast.

“The ground situation didn’t help us, even though some would maybe think it did.

“I remember Portugal turning up to play us and the changing rooms weren’t big enough to house them all.

“I think our mindset changed when the work on the ground was completed.

“I can’t remember a game were we have played poorly at home since the redevelopment.

“Home games are key in international football and each game has personal significance for the players.

“I think if you asked them now they would all say they relished playing at home.

“The atmosphere in those games is superb.

“It’s important that the fans don’t underestimate the role they have to play in all this now.

“The team will need them more than ever. It is important they give the new man all their support.”

O’Neill’s win record as Northern Ireland boss is only bettered by Bertie Peacock in stats provided by Football Statistician Marshall Gillespie.

He won 18 out of 48 games in charge, but what are his standout moments?

“The Greece game stands out for me but I really didn’t enjoy it as there was so much at stake,” said O’Neill.

“I did take a lot out of my initial campaign even though it was a steep learning curve, especially dealing with double-headers.

“There was also the home and away games against Portugal and the home win over Russia.

“The finals in France were a fantastic experience. And I loved the games against Germany, even though I didn’t beat them.

“Even recently we were a couple of minutes away from a draw in Holland and a missed penalty away from beating them at home.

“In all the games no-one really turned us over.”