Tuesday Morning Sports Update

Tuesday, 28 October 2025 09:27

By Emma O'Connor

Keeping you up to date on soccer and rugby.

SOCCER

Celtic majority shareholder Dermot Desmond says Brendan Rodgers contributed to a "toxic atmosphere" at the club before resigning as manager.

The Antrim native called time on his second stint as boss last night with the club eight points adrift of Hearts at the top of the Scottish Premiership.

In a statement released by Desmond last night, he described some of Rodgers' public comments in recent times as 'divisive, misleading and self-serving'.

Former boss Martin O'Neill has been placed in interim charge of the first team, with former Celtic star Shaun Maloney also involved in the temporary management set-up.

Katie McCabe is set to make her 100th appearance for the Republic of Ireland tonight.

The Arsenal star is poised to feature in their Nations League play-off second leg against Belgium, having scored twice in the 4-2 first leg win in Dublin last Friday.

Kick off in Leuven this evening is at half seven.

RUGBY

The Irish rugby squad will step up their preparations today for Saturday's test match against New Zealand in Chicago.

Andy Farrell's side are due to train later today as they look ahead to this weekend's match at Soldier Field.

Ireland yesterday reported a full bill of health - meaning Caelan Doris is available for selection this weekend.