Writing on the wall for local scribes

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill recently put members of the local media through their paces at a specially convened light-hearted training session in Belfast.

O'Neill predicted that none of the local media were bound for stardom and added that he had been constructive in his criticism, hoping that he would receive similar treatment in return.

The NI boss said his aim was to see his side "remain competitive in the group and improve our world ranking", adding that the early home games against Luxembourg and Azerbaijan would be key.