Former Northern Ireland and Sligo Rovers boss involved in serious accident

Irish Daily Mirror

2 days ago

Former Northern Ireland and Sligo Rovers boss Ian Baraclough needed emergency surgery after suffering extensive back and neck injuries in an accident.
Baraclough was swimming on holiday in Mauritius when the incident happened in which he suffered broken bones in his back and neck.
The 54-year-old was appointed as Patrick Thistle's sporting director this year and the club have released a statement confirming that Baraclough's injuries are not 'life-changing'.
He guided Sligo to their Premier Division title in 35 years and also to FAI Cup final success before a stint in charge of Motherwell in the SPL.
He went on to take the reins of Northern Ireland's under-21s in 2017 and then took charge of the senior squad in 2020 for two years before Michael O'Neill's return to the helm.
Thistle's statement read: "It is expected it will be several weeks before he can return to Scotland and a further period of recovery will be needed before he is able to return to The Wyre Stadium at Firhill. The club have been in constant contact with Ian's family since the accident and have now also been able to thankfully speak to Ian."
Club chairman Richard Beastall reacted: "Ian suffered broken bones in both his neck and back but thankfully the speed in which he was operated on, and the care that was taken pre-operation, has helped the situation significantly."
Baraclough said: "On behalf of myself, my wife, my children and my wider family I would like to thank the surgeons and staff at the Wellkin Hospital, Mauritius for their exceptional care.
"I would also like to thank club chairman Richard Beastall and all of the team at Partick Thistle for their support and well wishes. In my short space of time I have already felt the close bond and drive from staff, players, fans and volunteers that make Thistle what it is."
"I'm looking forward to returning as quickly as possible and get back to that unique and special feeling that really marks Thistle out as a football club with a passion to be different and an ambition to succeed. It is one that I am very proud to be a part of."