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Cape Town - Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill believes West Brom defender Jonny Evans has the right qualities to become a manager after his playing career ends.
At the age of 29, Evans is nearing the twilight of his career but he's being backed to continue playing a role in football from the technical area.
However, O'Neill also warned that it's a demanding job that isn't something every ex-player is eager to take on.
"Jonny's very bright, very intelligent, he knows the game and has strong opinions on the game," the 47-year-old said.
"Jonny certainly has all the attributes that you would look for in a manager and he's got good qualities as a human being as well as a football coach.
"Within the squad, they all have capabilities and know the game. We have a lot of people who have a lot of good human qualities that I think would make them a good manager."
O'Neill added: "You do it, work as hard as you can, and hopefully have success. It's where lads get the opportunity and whether they're prepared to take it and stick at it.
"It's a very challenging career but that's what makes it enjoyable. It's very difficult to find something after your playing career that will give you that level of focus and that level of challenge, and certainly management does that."
