The comparisons with Gavin Bazunu are unavoidable. Almost three years separates them but the fact the first-choice Ireland goalkeeper has exceeded 150 senior games before his turns 22 next month illustrates the disparity in career paths.

Never a dull moment in Zefi's Italian job and Hungary friendly an untimely coincidence for in-demand Szmodics.

Ballot chicanery, the Son of Jack, Alex Ferguson denials, mystery benefactors, kingmakers, Saipan rapprochement and succession planning are just some of terms worthy of entry into the lexicon of Irish managerial appointments. And there's always Philippe Troussier.

Extra-time for FAI before PAC grilling and Liverpool's Conor Bradley showing Republic what they missed out on.

After such an underwhelming 2023 and with limited competitive action this year, it is opportune for potential to nurture into an end product.

Here we assess the performances of those in the thick of it, from both sides of the divide, attaching suitable grades for their end-of-year assignment.

At least he was consistent, if nothing else.

we divert from the default headings to attach some of other noteworthy events that occurred over the season or are being left dangling.

When a crisis prolongs from days into weeks and now months, it’s a sure sign that any green for go signs will be overtaken by flashing red lights. Festive entertainment of a different kind.

We may never know, but we can always ponder what Kenny's reaction would have been if he'd been robbed of his best player for a dead rubber by Mick McCarthy during his tenure as U21 supremo.