The highs and lows of Irish football in 2017

The Irish football year was book-ended and overshadowed by the tragic deaths of Derry City skipper Ryan McBride and the young Shelbourne striker Izzy Desu, writes Liam Mackey.

At this time of year, when people traditionally reflect on the past and contemplate the future, one can only imagine how painful that experience must be for their families, friends and teammates.

To all of them, we can only reiterate our sorrow for their heartbreaking loss and hope that they find the strength to cope in 2018.