1. #EURO 2012 Giovanni Trapattoni’s men today continue their preparations for the crucial qualifier with Macedonia on Saturday.

Last evening, Newcastle striker Leon Best was pulled out of the squad with injury. But there was some good news as Richard Dunne and Robbie Keane look set to be passed fit to line out.

2. #CASH MONEY Former Cork manager Larry Tompkins has called for some sort of legitimate payment to intercounty managers to be introduced.

3. #TRAGEDY The autopsy report of former gridiron star Dave Duerson – who shot himself in the heart and left his head to be studied by the ‘NFL brain bank’ has been released. It makes for a tough read,  predictably.

As Deadspin report: “The final scene in his apartment is probably the worst thing we can picture for our athletes: dead, in bed, surrounded by his medals and certificates. In his closet, his trophies and awards, and football helmets from his three different teams. Folded neatly at the head of his bed, an American flag.”

4.#RACING Dunguib could step up to three miles at the Punchestown Festival in May following a disappointing performance in the Stan James Champion Hurdle.

5. #BACK TO BUSINESS Several of Leinster’s Irish internationals will rejoin the squad today having received extra time off after last weekend’s victory over England.

Captain Leo Cullen is expected to return, while half-back pairing Jonathan Sexton and Eoin Reddan may also be included in the panel for Sunday’s game against Newport.

6. #YOUTUBE As we do every Thursday, we’ll compile our weekly YouTube chart this morning. Send us your favourites from the past seven days. This one might well make the cut.

Maith an fear, Dougie…