Blackburn is reportedly planning a surprising transfer for a “fantastic” ex-Charlton star to replace O’Neill.

Blackburn Rovers are continuing their search for a new manager after Michael O’Neill decided against taking the role permanently, and reports now suggest the club are considering a surprise approach for former Burnley boss Scott Parker.

Blackburn had hoped O’Neill could remain at Ewood Park on a long-term basis after helping steady the club during a difficult campaign, but the experienced coach has instead chosen to focus fully on his duties with the Northern Ireland national football team ahead of the upcoming Euro 2028 qualification campaign.

The decision means Blackburn’s hierarchy are once again searching for a permanent manager as they attempt to move the club forward after another challenging Championship season.

O’Neill opts to remain with Northern Ireland

After weeks of speculation surrounding his future, O’Neill confirmed that he would not be taking the Blackburn role permanently despite enjoying his spell at the club.

The 56-year-old expressed his appreciation for everyone connected with Blackburn, praising the players, coaching staff and supporters for the backing he received during his time in Lancashire.

However, after considering his long-term future, O’Neill decided that remaining committed to Northern Ireland represented the best option for both his career and the national team’s ambitions ahead of the European Championship campaign.

The former Stoke City manager explained that Blackburn is a club with a proud tradition and passionate support, but admitted his main focus now has to remain international football.

His departure may disappoint some Blackburn supporters given the stability he brought during the closing stages of the season.

O’Neill helped Blackburn avoid relegation trouble

Although Blackburn endured a difficult campaign overall, O’Neill managed to guide the club away from immediate relegation danger during his short spell in charge.

The Rovers ultimately finished five points above Oxford United, who ended the season in 22nd position.

Across his 15 matches as Blackburn manager, O’Neill recorded five victories, five draws and five defeats, averaging 1.33 points per game.

While those numbers may not appear spectacular on paper, they were enough to stabilise the club at an important stage of the season.

Given his previous experience in the Championship, many fans believed Blackburn might try to convince him to stay permanently.

O’Neill has managed more than 140 matches in England’s second tier during his career and is widely respected for his organisational skills and ability to build competitive sides.

However, with his focus now shifting entirely back toward Northern Ireland, Blackburn have been forced to explore alternative candidates.

Scott Parker emerges as a shock contender

According to reports from Sports Boom, Blackburn are now considering a surprise move for former Burnley boss Scott Parker.

Such an appointment would undoubtedly generate strong reactions given Parker’s recent association with Blackburn’s Lancashire rivals.

Parker only left Burnley at the end of April after both parties agreed to part ways following the club’s relegation from the Premier League.

The Clarets endured an extremely difficult season in the top flight, winning just four league games before their relegation was officially confirmed.

Despite that disappointing campaign, Parker remains highly regarded because of his excellent record in the Championship.

The 45-year-old has developed a reputation as one of the division’s most reliable promotion specialists after previously guiding multiple clubs into the Premier League.

Parker’s promotion pedigree could appeal to Blackburn

Although his time in the Premier League has often proved difficult, Parker’s Championship record remains impressive.

The former midfielder has already achieved promotion to the Premier League with three different clubs during his managerial career.

He first guided Fulham back to the top flight before later repeating the feat with AFC Bournemouth.

Most recently, he secured promotion with Burnley, further strengthening his reputation as a manager capable of building successful Championship teams.

That experience could make him an attractive option for Blackburn as they continue trying to return to the Premier League for the first time since 2012.

The club have spent more than a decade outside the top division and supporters are desperate to see Blackburn competing among England’s elite once again.

Parker’s track record suggests he understands exactly what is required to mount a successful promotion challenge in the Championship.

Former Charlton midfielder built strong reputation as coach

Before moving into management, Parker enjoyed an impressive playing career that included a long spell with Charlton Athletic.

The midfielder made 141 appearances for Charlton between 1997 and 2004 and quickly established himself as one of English football’s most talented central players.

He later went on to represent clubs including Chelsea, Newcastle United, West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur while also earning England caps.

Since retiring, Parker has steadily built his reputation in management despite mixed fortunes in the Premier League.

One of his most impressive achievements came during his time at Burnley, when his side produced a remarkable 33-game unbeaten run last season — setting a new club record.

That consistency demonstrated Parker’s ability to organise teams effectively across a long Championship campaign.

Blackburn weighing risk against ambition

Appointing Parker would certainly represent a bold move from Blackburn given his previous links to Burnley.

However, football club rivalries are often pushed aside when owners believe a manager can deliver results, and Parker’s promotion history is difficult to ignore.

Blackburn’s hierarchy are believed to be carefully considering several candidates as they search for someone capable of building a competitive squad next season.

After years of inconsistency and frustration, the club are eager to move closer toward the Premier League again.

Parker’s style of management, Championship experience and proven promotion pedigree could make him a strong contender despite the controversy such an appointment might initially create among supporters.

For now, Blackburn continue assessing their options following O’Neill’s departure, but the possibility of Parker arriving at Ewood Park would certainly rank among the most eye-catching managerial appointments of the summer.