Neil McDonald is a former professional footballer and current football coach/manager and pundit. During his illustrious playing career Neil enjoyed successful spells at a number of top flight clubs including Newcastle United, Everton and Bolton Wanderers. Since retiring he has managed Carlisle United and Swedish club Ostersunds FK, and has been an integral part of the coaching staff at Blackburn Rovers, Preston North End, Crystal Palace and Lincoln City.

Born in Wallsend, North Tyneside, Neil played for local youth team Wallsend Boys Club before joining Carlisle United as a schoolboy. He then joined Newcastle United as an apprentice. Neil soon established himself as a regular first team player and went on to play over 200 league and cup games for the Magpies before joining Everton in 1988. Neil enjoyed similar success for Everton during a three year spell at Goodison Park. Making over 100 appearances and helping the club reach the FA Cup Final in 1989. In 1991 Neil joined the newly promoted Oldham Athletic featuring in their memorable FA Cup Semi Final against Manchester United in 1994. Following their relegation Neil left Oldham and joined Bolton Wanderers. Helping them secure promotion to the Premier League and reach the League Cup Final. In 1995 Neil joined Preston North End where he remained until retiring from professional football at the end of the 1998-99 season having seen Preston twice win promotion.

It was while still playing for Preston that Neil began his coaching career. Becoming a player/coach during his last season and then a full time coach once retired. Neil then joined Bolton Wanderers in 2000 as Assistant Manager under Sam Allardyce. While at Bolton Neil completed his UEFA Pro License before accepting the role of Assistant Manager at Crystal Palace under Iain Dowie. In 2006 Neil became manager of his former club Carlisle United, leading them to their highest league position in 20 years. In 2007 he took over as manager of Swedish club Ostersunds FK for a 5 week period, saving the league strugglers from relegation before returning to England. Upon his return Neil teamed up with former Newcastle team mate Peter Jackson as Lincoln City's Assistant Manager. After a successful season at Lincoln City, Neil was reunited with Sam Allardyce at Blackburn Rovers, occupying the Assistant Manager position until Sam Allardyce's controversial departure in December 2010.

Having played and coached at the highest level Neil's understanding and knowledge of the game are second to none. He makes regular appearances on television and radio offering his opinions and insights on all football matters.