Former Ireland and Preston North End goalkeeper Alan Kelly Sr has died at the age of 72.

In the middle of international week the Examiner’s football correspondent Liam Mackey reflects on the state of the nation after the draw with Germany and ahead of the rematch with Cyprus and also takes a look at the resumption of the Premier League campaign. You’re all exercised by the future of the Irish game and the forthcoming Drogs v Cork game but there are views, also, on English football (and rugby!) supporters; Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry; Avram Grant’s ability to count up to ten; the Merseyside derby and what it might mean for Benitez; whether United might be persuaded to spend big on Drogba and a rallying call for Martin Jol.