One goal against Bulgaria won’t shape his career but it can be defined as good rather than bad. A game defined by the shot he took a few minutes beforehand might have allowed a different story to take shape.

Irish football exists in a perpetual crisis of confidence. The League of Ireland offers some hope that there is a new energy but there is a long way to go.

In the coming weeks, Arne Slot may have to go against his instincts and tap into a wildness that remains a key element of this side put together by Jurgen Klopp.

Investor Ratcliffe was pleased by the appointment of Amorim but if United slip closer to relegation, will he remain as content? For now he has what he wants, but what will be needed next to meet his approval?

Sport has become like the real world, except in those tiny glimpses of community.

The Manchester United manager has the charisma to sell his vision for the club to those who matter. 

Liverpool will be more boring but if Slot can keep winning, not many supporters will be concerned.

Ireland deserved their luck against Finland. To escape recent history, they may need to earn their luck again.

 England are not at peace with themselves, but, more importantly, they aren’t sure who they are supposed to be.

The real business is in the great stadiums of Germany and on the muddy unplayable fields of Ireland. The two have never been further apart.