HOW THE GROUP STANDS NOW

Blame it on the less-than-ideal build-up, where tickets and a hotel confrontation overshadowed the football, but Martin O’Neill will wake up this morning with a feeling of regret over the three points that slipped away.

Victory in Celtic Park against Scotland was Ireland’s chance to not only slide closer to securing a one of three qualification spots on offer, but, perhaps, to even emerge as group leaders. A win – especially away from home – would have lifted O’Neill’s side up to cloud nine.

However, the last night’s loss means they could be chasing rather than leading the pack next year. Germany are bound to improve after a shaky start, while Poland continue to impress and the Scots will be buoyed by beating Ireland – the team they feared most could have hindered their chances. There are now 134 days until Ireland return to action, when they simply must beat Poland. Failure to do so will knock them back further because both Germany and Scotland should beat Georgia and Gibraltar respectively on the same night.