Michael O’Neill is doing some job with Northern Ireland.
The former Shamrocks Rovers manager has guided ‘Norn Iron’ to their first major tournament since the 1980s when they will appear at this summer’s European Championships in France.
And as a result of their incredible recent run, they have pushed further up the latest Fifa world rankings, and away from the Republic of Ireland.
O’Neill’s side are now up two spots, to the dizzying vista of 26th, the highest in their history, after a draw with Wales and a 1-0 win over Slovakia.
The Republic have slipped two places to 31st, despite our draw with Slovakia and win over Switzerland, with Poland and Costa Rica now lording it over Martin O’Neill’s side.
There is also a new number one with Argentina displacing Belgium from the summit. Wales are down seven spots to 24th, England drop one place to 10th, and Scotland leap five spots to 40th.
We know we should be more disappointed that despite a win and a draw we have slipped down. However the real Fifa rankings will take shape after this summer’s Euros.
That’s what we keep telling ourselves, at least.
