Michael O'Neill is set to be confirmed as Northern Ireland's new manager in a bumper five-and-a-half-year deal.
The 53-year-old has agreed terms with the Irish FA to return for a second spell at the helm.
O'Neill led Northern Ireland to the Euro 2016 finals and a World Cup qualifying play-off during a hugely successful nine years in charge from December 2011 to April 2020.
Read more: Michael O'Neill appointment a no brainer for ex-NI striker Dowie
He left to take over as manager of Stoke City two years ago, but was sacked by the Championship club back in August.
O'Neill comes in to replace Ian Baraclough who was sacked by the Irish FA in October following another poor Nations League campaign.
It is understood the IFA could confirm the appointment on Wednesday, with the long-term contract taking O'Neill up to the 2028 Euros, some of which may be staged in Belfast in a joint UK and Ireland bid.
Former Northern Ireland striker Iain Dowie believes O'Neill is the "right fit" to return as boss.
"It is a sensible move by the IFA, and I don't think any Northern Ireland fan would argue against it," Dowie said.
"I am disappointed for Ian Baraclough who tried to blood some young players, but that will be a learning experience in his career.
"But Michael is the right fit for the job."
He added: "The way I look at how Michael preps his team. He is pragmatic, he makes sensible decisions.
"He had a very difficult start (to his first spell) and then went on an amazing run, and there hasn't been a better manager in recent years than him - by a long chalk."
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