There has been widespread shock and sadness in football here and in Britain following the sudden death, at just 45, of former Ireland U21 international Paul McCarthy.

Jermaine Easter’s late strike embarrassed Chelsea and earned Wycombe a memorable draw in the first leg of their Carling Cup semi-final at Adams Park.

As one dream died in a blaze of glory, another lived on as Liverpool beat Wycombe 2-1 to move a step closer to their cup treble.

Leicester will be forced to make two changes from the side which defeated Liverpool as the Foxes aim to reach the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time in 19 years.