McGrath’s Irish farewell

PAUL McGRATH made his final appearance for Ireland on a miserable night at Cardiff Arms Park where Mark Crossley was the best Welsh performer in a scoreless draw.

He didn’t know it at the time, and later said that he felt comfortable throughout the game, and the veteran was typically composed. McGrath was included in Mick McCarthy’s squad for a subsequent World Cup 98 qualifier with Macedonia, but did not go after an ill-judged night out ahead of the trip meant that he was unable to travel.

A ‘mix-up’ was the term used to describe the episode. It was an inglorious end to a terrific Irish career. And Ireland lost in Macedonia, a venue that haunted McCarthy in his first stint in charge.

Edinson Cavani is doubtful for PSG’s Champions League encounter with Manchester United tomorrow after injuring a hip tendon while scoring from the penalty spot against Bordeaux on Saturday