Gary McAllister, from the Amalgamation of Official Northern Ireland Supporters Clubs, said the investment would be beneficial for local football at every level.

"We would broadly welcome the deal on balance," he said.

"There are positives to it as well as negatives, as with everything.

"We welcome the significant investment in Northern Ireland football and think it should allow the IFA to spend money on things that will be beneficial at all levels in the long term."

He added that it might help attract a top flight manager for Northern Ireland.

Current boss Lawrie Sanchez is expected to move into Premiership management after Northern Ireland's involvement in Euro 2008 ends.

On the down side, Gary said the decision to deal with Sky and not the BBC may raise affordability issues among some fans.

"Those people with no access to transport, or no Sky TV will be very disappointed by the decision and will probably be feeling very disenfranchised. But we're hoping that the BBC or another local broadcaster will secure a highlights package which would allow Northern Ireland fans to see at least some of the action."

Supporters flooded the Our Wee Country website to air their views - some of them negative. One fan called the move a "short term gain" and stressed: "I think it will come back to haunt us".

Another branded the deal a "disgraceful decision", adding: "I cannot see Sky Sports showing our matches at the expense of other home nations and the Republic".

Other contributors were supportive of the move.

"I can see why the IFA have gone along with this," said one.

"In my opinion it is a good move on the basis of financial gain and also coverage throughout the UK."

Another said: "This is a great move. UK-wide and beyond, this gives us a higher profile."