Iain Dowie believes Michael O'Neill is the "sensible" choice to become Northern Ireland's next manager.
O'Neill is set to return for a second spell as boss on a long-term deal which is expected to be confirmed on Wednesday
The 53-year-old was previously in charge from December 2011 to April 2020 and led Northern Ireland to the 2016 Euro finals, the country's first major tournament in 30 years.
Read more: Michael O'Neill closing in on Northern Ireland return with decision imminent
O'Neill left to become Stoke City boss in 2020 but was sacked by the Championship club back in August.
Now he is set to replace Ian Baraclough, who was sacked as Northern Ireland boss back in October after another poor Nations League campaign.
"I think it's a done deal," Dowie said.
"It is a sensible move by the IFA, and I don't think any Northern Ireland fan would argue against it. 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.
"I was there the night we beat Ukraine at the Euros. It was an amazing atmosphere, and probably one of the greatest moments in my career, including my playing career.
"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."
O'Neill transformed Northern Ireland's fortunes during his first spell in charge.
As well as reaching the 2016 Euros, he also led the country to a World Cup play-off and left them on the cusp of another European qualification before his exit in 2020.
But after Baraclough's failed time at the helm, O'Neill faces another rebuilding job if Northern Ireland are to scale the heights once again.
Dowie said: "People talk about some of the more experienced players reaching the end of their careers, but we have young talent coming through.
"I really like Dan Ballard, he will grow. We had Kofi Balmer who was at Larne and then made the move to Crystal Palace.
"We have some talent coming through; Trai Hume is another one. So there are positive things.
"Michael won't be frightened to tap into that, and he will make sure his team puts in the hard yards. He will make sure they are not outrun and outfought.
"So I think it will be a very sensible acquisition...if it is done. Which I think it is."
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