As is customary, The Republic were handed a tough draw in the 2010 World Cup qualifying groups. Ireland will face world champions Italy, while the second seeds in the group are Bulgaria, who very narrowly missed qualification for Euro 2008 in a group containing Holland and Romania. It could have been worse, but not much. Looking on the bright side, a trip to Rome could prove very inviting for the fans.

As is also customary, England got a favourable draw: given the alternatives they will be happy to have Croatia as the top seeds in their group, despite this week's debacle.

On a positive note, the Irish media are reporting that Terry Venables is the FAI's choice for the Ireland job. This writer for one hopes he takes it - El Tel is a class act. Just as long as they put a clause in his contract forbidding him to write for The Sun.