The feelgood factor around Denmark’s recent footballing renaissance has cranked up a notch following their World Cup play-off pairing with the Republic of Ireland, admits Danish Eurosport commentator Peter Piil.

Martin was thrilled with Ireland’s World Cup playoff draw — Leo less so.

John Fallon looks at what Cork City must do to stay on top next season.

Brigitte Nielsen and Brodir v George Berkeley and the Pixies. Michael Moynihan takes us through the alternative Ireland-Denmark confrontations

Martin O’Neill probably had the best quote on the size of Ireland’s play-off challenge before he even learned the identity of his team’s opponents in Zurich yesterday.

Martin O’Neill has called for his Republic of Ireland players to draw on their recent experiences after they were paired with Denmark in the play-offs for next summer’s World Cup.

From Ophelia to the home of Hamlet.

It’s been something of a rollercoaster week for Munster, what with a face-saving draw on the road against Castres, the weakest of the French participants in this season’s Champions Cup, to complement the confirmation of a new head coach, writes Donal Lenihan.

Catch up on this morning's headlines...

John Fallon breaks down the strengths and weaknesses of Ireland’s potential opponents...

What is the point of the play-offs?

The latest Fifa rankings have seen Ireland move up eight places to 26 but, despite that significant improvement, of the eight countries to qualify for the World Cup play-offs, only Greece, at 47, are ranked below Martin O’Neill’s team.

Munster’s Champions Cup opener in France tomorrow will, in one respect, bring the province full circle, 22 years after they embarked on an inaugural European adventure.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp put himself on a collision course with Gareth Southgate after criticising the England boss’ handling of Jordan Henderson.

Jose Mourinho expects Manchester United to flourish rather than flounder amid the Anfield animosity this lunchtime.