Finland fans snub Ireland for England's visit

Markku Kanerva speculated that the late kick-off time, the weather, his side's poor start to the competition, and an upcoming game against England could be factors in the poor ticket sales for the Nations League clash with Ireland on Thursday. 

BIGGER THINGS TO COME: The Finland squad during training session at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

While miffed at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium being half empty tomorrow against Ireland, Finland boss Markku Kanerva realises it's due to England’s “world stars” looming.

The team ranked 64 in the world lost both of last month’s openers on their travels, 3-0 in Greece followed by a 2-0 reverse at Wembley and meet Ireland and England over the next four days.