1. #FAI Giovanni Trapattoni will continue his squad’s build-up to tomorrow evening’s friendly with Croatia at the Aviva Stadium today.

Shane Long was yesterday excused training, however, as he finalised a €8.2m move from Reading to Premier League side West Brom.

The Tipperary man is expected to complete the four-year, $25k-per-week deal this morning.

2. #LONDON As the city wakes up after another night of mayhem on the streets, English FA chiefs will meet with Met bosses this morning.

It’s likely that England’s international friendly with Holland at Wembley will be called off as police resources are obviously needed elsewhere.

Two League Cup ties - involving West Ham and Charlton – were also postponed last night.

3.# GOLF After yesterday’s announcement that he will indeed play on the US tour next year, Rory McIlroy revealed that he has had to employ security guards at his Northern Ireland home.

“There have been people driving up the driveway and stuff like that which isn’t very nice. It is something that I just had to put in place, I’m afraid,” he said.

4. #RWC Ireland skipper Brian O’Driscoll reckons a battle with the French at the breakdown on Saturday night will do his side the power of good.

5. #GAA Alan Mulholland says he will consider taking the Galway football job if he is nominated, according to John Fallon in the Irish Examiner.

6. BIRTHDAY BOY What do you if you turn 30 and you’re Roger Federer? Thank your parents, fans, girlfriend, that guy from the post office, for all their help. [Balls]

Murph’s sideline cut: forward-thinking Dubs singing in the rain…

The promoted 3: Can Swansea, Norwich and QPR stay in the Premier League?