Lawrence wants to sign off in style

WEDNESDAY’S last group game against Montenegro may be academic now that Ireland are assured of a play-off place but try telling that to Liam Lawrence.

The Stoke City midfielder has had to wait until the ripe old age of 27 before being offered a taste of international football and he isn’t about to pass on the offer of another slice now that he has finally secured a seat at the top table.

No, Lawrence can’t stomach the idea that there will be nothing to play for in two days’ time. “There is for me and the lads,’’ he said. “We still want to win all of the games we play.