Irish in action: Cullen, Azaz, Johnston and Kenny on target as Hallgrimsson prepares to name Ireland squad

Middlesbrough’s Finn Azaz celebrates after scoring his side’s first goal during the Sky Bet Championship win over Norwich at Carrow Road

Heimir Hallgrimsson enjoyed a good news day ahead of his squad announcement for the opening World Cup qualifiers with Josh Cullen, Finn Azaz and Mikey Johnston all on the scoresheet on Saturday.

Cullen scored one and created another in Burnley’s Premier League win over fellow newly promoted side Sunderland, a happy start to life back in the top flight for the Londoner.