Jonny Evans will continue being a professional despite interest from Manchester City, according to his Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill.

The West Bromwich Albion defender has been the subject of a rejected bid from City, who are desperate need for an experienced centre-back.

"I know Jonny's level of professionalism will mean he won't be distracted by the whole thing," O'Neill told Sky Sports.

"Ideally if it's suitable for all parties and it can be agreed the sooner it can be done the better in terms of our preparation. Sometimes these things take time. They can go right to the last minute.

"But he's played at the biggest club in the world since he was 18 or 19 and won the Premier League on three occasions [with Manchester United] so he's vast experience of what is needed to play at a big club."