Scotland had broken a world record – they had become the first country to successfully negotiate five successive qualification processes.
Juan Carlos Ferrero's third successive qualification for the French Open semi-finals on Thursday was not just routine for the gifted Spaniard.
A third successive qualification victory, courtesy of Tom Lawrence's first goal for his country, means that another win against the Republic of Ireland in Cardiff on Monday will all but guarantee a place in the World Cup play-offs.
He was with his daughter on Tuesday afternoon and he was the first one to call me and he asked if I wanted him to say anything about the rumours," said O'Neill, who claims Lerner is delighted with the prospect of a third successive qualification for Europe.
Germany's profitable summer excursion to Brazil also ensured that, for a third successive European qualification campaign, Scotland would have to contend with the incumbent world champions.
Second successive World Cup qualification, but unlikely to end up with anything but the wooden spoon in its group.
After his departure, Booth became head coach and he continued to steer the Exiles through their most successful period of the professional era, leading the club to a Premiership final and Heineken Cup tournament qualifications for three successive years.
The 50-year-old former West Indies player, who was appointed in 2007, has guided the Irish to qualification for six successive global tournaments.
"Yes of course we care and we worry about the top four," said Wenger, who has come under sustained criticism from disaffected Arsenal fans in recent weeks as he strives to secure Champions League qualification for a 20th successive year.
McCall again worked wonders at Fir Park and Steve Lomas has done a wonderful job in securing Europa League qualification for St Johnstone in successive seasons after a major squad revamp.
