Shane steps up

Congratulations to Shane Ferguson - a young player who stands a significantly better chance of first-team action this season than the Lone Ranger - on making his competitive debut for Northern Ireland in midweek. Sadly, it turned out to be a frustrating night for his side, as they fell to a late Luxembourg equaliser, having had three goals disallowed and also struck the woodwork. Ferguson, who was withdrawn with 15 minutes remaining, might yet find himself pressed into service at left-back, with Davide Santon switching to right-back, given the absence of both Raylor and Danny Simpson - though the Silver Fox does appear to see him more as an attacking than a defensive option.

Dreamboat was also in action for his country on Tuesday, and was also substituted towards the end as France beat Belarus 3-1. Thankfully, there were no more injuries to report...