For seven and a half years, McArdle juggled a construction job, semi‑pro football and a building services degree while raising three kids.
He then slashed his earnings by roughly 300%, swapping the paycheck for a coaching badge—a gamble that now points toward a World Cup in Brazil next summer.
His résumé spans Falkirk, St Mirren and Ayr United, a stint with Scotland’s U‑23 women and a senior role at the Scottish FA, landing him as Northern Ireland’s boss in March. For my money, his diverse background gives NI a real edge.