IFA president Jim Boyce has not ruled out the prospects of a foreign boss

The Irish Football Association hopes to appoint a new Northern Ireland manager in January.

IFA president Jim Boyce has revealed that a list of potential candidates for the position was drawn up earlier this month.

The IFA's international's committee will meet before Christmas to draw up a shortlist and it is hoped that interviews will be conducted in early January.

"We should look for someone with the necessary credentials to ensure that Northern Ireland rises from its abysmal position of 118th in the Fifa rankings," Boyce told the Belfast Telegraph.

"We need a motivator with coaching experience and knowledge at the highest level".

McIlroy quits NI job

Boyce acknowledged that he had an open mind on whether a part-time appointment could be made.

There continue to be suggestions that the IFA will attempt to persuade Celtic boss Martin O'Neill to take on a part-time role but these efforts are certain to be rebuffed by the former Northern Ireland star.

The IFA president has not ruled out the possibility of a foreign coach taking the job.

"Ideally I would like to see an Ulsterman appointed but if a candidate emerges, for instance in Europe, who is of exceptional quality we would be silly to say no to such a prospect".