We’re back! Kicking off a new series run of Behind the Lines is Professor of History at UCD, Paul Rouse. Get the full episode by subscribing to The42 now! Across a sprawling, fascinating conversation, we discuss Paul’s new book, Sport in Modern Irish Life, and how he broke new ground to give sport the academic rigour and respect it warrants. Paul explains why ‘sportswashing’ does not adequately explain the involvement of nation states in modern sport, and we also discuss how the GAA adopted convenient but false stories in its early decades to align itself with political nationalism. Why did the GAA do this, what damage did it cause, and what is the legacy of this mythmaking today? Paul also lays out the difficult questions the GAA must ask itself to make itself fit for purpose in modern-day Ireland. Paul also defends the spectacle of modern-day Gaelic football, explains what everyone got wrong about Saipan, and runs us through his lecture series on Muhammad Ali and picks the sportsperson whose career and life could be used to explain the world today. Writing-wise, Paul recommends: The Pursuit of Perfection: The Life, Death and Legacy of Cormac McAnallen by Dónal McAnallen The Hurley Maker’s Son by Patrick Deeley The Grass Ceiling by Eimear Ryan

In the fourth and penultimate episode of The42’s exclusive podcast series ‘On the Right Wing’, Enda Coll explores the role that former football hooligans played in the establishment and rise of the right-wing group The English Defence League. With Professor Jon Garland from the University of Surrey, they track the birth of the group, the overlap in those involved with previous football firm members, and the EDL stands out as a unique occurrence. Plus, Senior football news reporter with the Athletic, Matt Slater joins to discuss the improvement in fan behaviour through the 1990s and beyond, but how there was fear that antisocial behavior was on the rise in the post-COVID seasons.

In the third episode of the series, Enda Coll explores the world of Italian football and why the league has historically had issues with fascist showcasing inside their grounds. To do so, he goes back in time with Simon - author of 'Football and Fascism: The National Game under Mussolini' - to understand how much Italy's fascist past impacts the modern-day league. Plus, Italian football writer Paddy Agnew explains how organised crime has infiltrated the stadiums, how they use the ultra movement to their advantage and the issues the authorities have had when trying to deal with it.

In a special edition of Behind the Lines, The Journal Editor, Sinead O'Carroll takes over hosting duties of the podcast. She's joined in studio by journalist and broadcaster Cliona Foley, by Irish Times sports writer Mary Hannigan and by The 42's Emma Duffy. They discuss their careers working in the sports media as women, the early days of covering women's sport and how it has developed, the struggles they still face fighting for proper coverage of women's sport and they look ahead to the excitement of the Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

In the second episode of the series, Enda Coll explores the world of German football and its heterogeneous fan culture. Charting the rise of hooliganism in the country from the 1980's onwards, he looks at the clamping down on football by authorities after the World Cup in France in 1998, the rise of the Ultra scene, the role that some football hooligans played in the anti-lockdown protests during COVID and the Neo-Nazis in that group, who are training professionally in gyms. Get the full podcast by subscribing - The42.ie/podcasts/

On The Right Wing - Neymar's backing of Bolsonaro by The42

Enda Coll, David Sneyd and Shane Keegan look at Gavin Bazunu's season with Southampton and what the future holds for the young goalkeeper. Get the full Football Family podcast by subscribing to The 42 - The42.ie/subscribe/

Gavin Cooney joins David Sneyd and Shane Keegan in the aftermath of the World Cup final as he attempts to sum up what this means to Messi and Argentina.

It has been a Lions Tour riddled with setbacks, but Saturday sees Warren Gatland's side face the reigning world champions South Africa in the first of three Tests. To preview the opening game in Cape Town as well as the series as a whole, The42's Gavan Casey and Ciaran Kennedy are joined by South African rugby writer Brenden Nel, who gives his take on events so far. 18+, always gamble responsibly. For more information, see gamblingtherapy.org

Ireland may not be there, but the European Championship kicks off on Friday - a year later than originally scheduled. Miguel Delaney, The Independent's chief football writer, AFP football correspondent Kieran Canning and football writer and broadcaster Tom Williams join Gavin Cooney to preview the tournament on the latest episode of The Punt. 18+, always gamble responsibly. For more information, see gamblingtherapy.org

A free clip from this week's episode of the Behind The Lines sportswriting podcast as South American football expert Tim Vickery joins Gavin Cooney.

A free clip from our exclusive members Rugby Weekly Extra podcast(24/05)as Eoin Toolan joins Murray Kinsella to discuss the 2021 Champions Cup final and Eoin's experiences as an analyst in Japan. To hear the full podcast, and get lots more benefits, join The42 Membership today at members.the42.ie/#podcasts for less than 12 cent a day.

Gavin Cooney is joined by Brian Keogh of irishgolfdesk.com to look ahead to this week's US PGA Championship and discuss Rory McIlroy's chances at Kiawah Island - with tips and the latest William Hill odds. Then The42's GAA heads Fintan O'Toole and Kevin O'Brien drop by to preview Sunday's meeting of Dublin and Kerry in the Allianz Football League. 18+, always gamble responsibly. For more information, see gamblingtherapy.org

A free clip from our exclusive members Rugby Weekly Extra podcast (17/05)as Eoin Toolan joins Murray Kinsella to discuss the latest inter-pros and all the action in Super Rugby, as well as the upcoming Top League final in Japan. To hear the full podcast, and get lots more benefits, join The42 Membership today at http://members.the42.ie/#podcasts for less than 12 cent a day.

We have reached our 75th episode, so this arbitrarily significant milestone gives us a chance to pause for breath and reflect on some of the highlights of the year so far. So, listen as Simon Kuper explains the influence of Eamon Dunphy and details what a night out with an elite footballer is really like nowadays; Stephen Jones defends himself from our listeners’ charge that he is “anti-Irish”; and ESPN’s Wright Thompson reveals why Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan have fallen out. Plus, Marcela Mora y Araujo tells an extraordinary tale of how the victims of the military junta were treated during the 1978 World Cup , and Michael Calvin reflects on the profoundly moving experience of co-writing Gareth Thomas’ autobiography. If you want to gain access to the full 75-episode back catalogue of Behind the Lines, along with a new episode every week, then subscribe for €5 a month or €42 a year at members.the42.ie

Gavan Casey and Gavin Cooney are joined by boxing journalist Joe O'Neill to preview Katie Taylor's undisputed lightweight title defence against old rival Natasha Jonas on Saturday - with predictions and the latest William Hill odds. Then footballer writer David Sneyd gives his thoughts on why the game should be secondary when Man United face Liverpool this weekend. 18+, always gamble responsibly. For more information, see gamblingtherapy.org

Ahead of this year's Cheltenham Festival, Johnny Ward is joined by Donn McClean and Dublin footballer John Small to discuss the biggest week in the racing calendar. Ballymun Kickhams star Small talks about his racing background and the influence of his late father Declan, while Donn reveals his inter-county past with the Louth minor footballers. Then the lads get stuck into previewing a bumper four days of racing with plenty of tips and the latest William Hill prices. 18+, always gamble responsibly. For more information, see gamblingtherapy.org

Miguel Delaney, chief football writer at The Independent, freelance football journalist David Sneyd and broadcaster Johnny Ward join The42's Gavan Casey to discuss some of the Premier League's major talking points -- with a focus on Man City, Man United, Liverpool and Spurs. Then Johnny looks ahead to this year's Cheltenham Festival with some early tips and the latest William Hill prices. 18+, always gamble responsibly. For more information, see BeGambleAware.org

NFL analyst Sam Monson of PFF and Steve O'Rourke, formerly of this parish, join The42's Gavan Casey to preview this weekend's Super Bowl LV between Tom Brady's Tampa Bay Buccaneers and defending champions the Kansas City Chiefs, with predictions, tips and the latest William Hill prices. Then Andy Dunne stops by to look ahead to the Six Nations tournament, with a particular focus on Ireland, England and his beloved French. 18+, always gamble responsibly. For more information, see BeGambleAware.org

Ahead of the weekend's All-Ireland hurling final between Waterford and Limerick and the meeting of Kilkenny and Galway in the camogie final, The42's Gavan Casey, Fintan O'Toole and Sinead Farrell are joined by Shane Stapleton of Our Game to preview both matches and pick out a couple of tips with the latest William Hill prices.

Gavan Casey and Gavin Cooney chat to Kathleen McNamee of ESPN about Katie Taylor's world title defence against Miriam Gutierrez and the wider impact she has had on women's sport, before Johnny Ward discusses Ireland's upcoming international fixtures and gives his betting tips.

***FREE PREVIEW EPISODE*** Welcome to The42 GAA Weekly with Shane Dowling and Marc Ó Sé, a brand-new podcast exclusive to The42 Members. To listen to the rest of the series, sign up now at members.the42.ie. Use the codes SHANETHE42 or MARCTHE42 to get €5 off the first year of your annual membership. On this week's launch episode, Shane and Marc get stuck into the weekend's biggest games as Limerick and Tipperary square off in the Munster hurling semi-finals and Donegal and Tyrone go toe-to-toe in a knockout Ulster championship clash, and plenty more.

A brand new show from The42 and William Hill that looks ahead to the major Irish sporting events - at home and abroad - each month. In the first episode, The42's Gavan Casey and Gavin Cooney are joined by journalists David Sneyd and Johnny Ward to discuss the talking points and give their betting tips ahead of Ireland's Euro 2020 play-off against Slovakia. The lads also share their thoughts on Dundalk's Europa League group, which features Arsenal, Rapid Vienna and Molde. 18+, always gamble responsibly. For more information, see BeGambleAware.org

In the final episode of the series, Mayo star Sarah Rowe tells us how a negative experience in a provincial final helped her to learn and grow.

In our penultimate episode, Shane McGrath - an All-Ireland winner with Tipperary - describes how a day at Páirc Uí Chaoimh in 2008 had a lasting impact on his career.

A member of one of the great Kerry football families is our latest guest, as he remembers the 2006 All-Ireland quarter-final showdown with Armagh.

In Episode 5, former Kildare captain Eamonn Callaghan opens up about a vital meeting with Kieran McGeeney in 2010 that changed his whole approach to Gaelic football.

Cork ladies football legend Brid Stack, who won a remarkable 11 All-Ireland medals, looks back at 2007 final against Mayo - when she marked the great Cora Staunton and was named Player of the Match.

We hear from Wexford football hero Matty Forde about a day he caught the eye - thanks to his hair, his boots and his scoring - in Episode 3 of our Life Changing Moments podcast series with UPMC.

In Episode 2 of our new series with UPMC, we hear from one of Kilkenny's most gifted former hurlers about a turning point in his career - in the 2010 All-Ireland semi-final win over Cork at Croke Park.

In the first episode of this new series with UPMC, Waterford hurling legend Dan Shanahan relives a day that is etched in his memory and explains how that experience gave him the confidence to reach the very top of the game.

This week’s Behind The Lines is a special episode as part of The42’s Genius Week, in which we celebrate the genius of the late Hugh McIlvanney. We’re delighted to be joined by Gary Lineker to do so, who became a friend of McIlvanney’s, and delivered a eulogy at his funeral. Gary also shares his memories of McIlvanney, and his opinions on what made him the best sportswriter of them all. (We also learn a bit about Lineker’s fledgling sportswriting career before he got on with the business of being one of the greatest goalscorers in English football history.) McIlvanney is the most-cited writer across our 29 episodes to date, and this episode also features contributions from Donald McRae, Alan English, Miguel Delaney and Danny Kelly. Behind the Lines is available exclusively to members of the42. To sign up and gain access to a host of podcast series, special offers and exclusive newsletters, insights and stories, head over to members.the42.ie. Get in touch with the show - email [email protected], or tweet @gcooney93.

Behind The Lines is the sportswriting podcast from the42. Every fortnight, host Gavin Cooney chats to some well-known journalists about their careers, the industry and most importantly, their favourite pieces. BTL is exclusive to The42 members. You can join or just learn more at members.the42.ie. In the meantime, we hope you enjoy this taster.

A selection of the best bits from the dozen episodes of The Football Family podcast that aired in 2019, featuring Roy O'Donovan, Louise Quinn, Karl Moore, Graham Barrett, Derek Coughlan, Brian Barry-Murphy, Mark Yeates, Rianna Jarrett, Dean Delany, Dominic Foley, Zack Elbouzedi and Keith Fahey. To become a member and hear more of The Football Family, visit http://members.the42.ie

With Dessie Farrell having assumed the hot seat in the biggest job in the GAA, Fintan O'Toole was joined by The Irish Sun's Gordon Manning to look ahead to the post-Jim Gavin era whilst also asking the question, 'Can Dessie Farrell be our Greta Thunberg?' Including: 01:05 - The best/worst job in Gaelic Football? 05:27 - A licence to experiment 07:33 - What new faces can we expect to see? 09:30 - Dessie's rise through the ranks 11:42 - What next for Stephen Cluxton? 13:40 - Journalists and the Jim Gavin camp 18:30 - Tangled Up In Blue 23:28 - The continuing legacy of the 1995 Dubs 27:27 - Backroom changes 28:55 - Dublin's challengers in 2020 30:05 - The element of doubt 32:25 - Dessie and Climate Change 34:54 - Dublin talent coming through 36:02 - How will Dessie's first year play out?

Former Republic of Ireland midfielder Keith Fahey speaks candidly to Paul Dollery about mental health and the personal challenges he has endured. Access to The Football Family is normally exclusive to The42.ie members. However, due to the potential for Keith Fahey's message to aid others who may be experiencing similarly tough times, we've decided to make this episode freely available to all. If you need to talk, contact: - Pieta House 1800 247 247 or email [email protected] - Samaritans 116 123 or email [email protected] - Aware 1800 80 48 48 - Teen-Line Ireland 1800 833 634 (for ages 13 to 19) - Childline 1800 66 66 66 (for under 18s) You can hear more from The Football Family via http://members.the42.ie

In the final episode of 'Sonia' we find her at her lowest hour, Atlanta 1996. It's her second Olympics and again, Ireland expects and demands. We then go back a year to see just why the Irish public were just so expectant as Sonia becomes World Champion in Gothenburg. Sonia finally climbed on to the Olympic podium in Sydney eight years on from coming so close in Barcelona - it had been a long, but ultimately glory-filled, road along the way.

In Episode Two we meet Sonia on the start lines of the 1993 World Championships in Stuttgart. It's two years on from the Barcelona Olympics and Sonia is a household name. In Stuttgart the nation sits back ready to bear witness to her cementing her place as an Irish Sporting Icon with Gold at the World Championships. But Ma Junren and his squad of Chinese runners have different plans.Stuttgart turns from being a coronation for Sonia to the scene where she displays just how deep she can go to find herself and overcome unforeseen obstacles. Sonia's silver at Stuttgart shows she's here for the long haul and in doing so cements her legend more than a cake-walk to Gold ever could. Join us on The42 for Sonia Week, as we celebrate an Irish icon's 50th birthday.

Thanks to the heroics of Wayne McCullough and Michael Carruth in the boxing ring, the 1992 Barcelona Olympics will forever live in the Irish sporting lexicon as one of the great summers -- and in the 1990s, there were a few. But while the boxers were bagging gold and silver, a new star that would shine throughout the decade was taking her first steps at the Olympics: Sonia O'Sullivan. In Episode One of 'Sonia', we follow the Cobh youngster as she lines up for her first Olympic heat and as she takes the lead in her first Olympic final with only a few hundred yards separating her from debut glory and defeat. With Sonia, nothing was ever boring. Join us at The42 this week as we re-live her career.

Irish cricket player Kevin O'Brien joins Ryan Bailey to chat about a historic year for Irish cricket and his upcoming travels to Nepal.

With Ireland hoping to beat the All Blacks at home for the first time this Saturday, Murray and Gavan are joined by Irish Examiner columnist Ronan O'Gara to look ahead to the match, recount past tests and chat about the coaching life.

Leinster rugby star James Lowe joins to chat about his Movember Foundation Ireland campaign, as well as his form at Leinster, showing his parents around Ireland and Ireland's upcoming test against his native New Zealand.

Dubliner Mick Clohisey speaks to Ryan Bailey after winning the national marathon championship on Sunday in his hometown of Dublin.

Ryan Bailey chats to the man who's been at the helm of the Dublin marathon since 1997 about last minute prep, what to expect on race day and the best recovery techniques.

Gavan Casey joins Ryan Bailey with all the latest news and reaction from Khabib v McGregor.

Fresh off their victory at the World Rowing Championships, Skibbereen's Gary and Paul O'Donovan join Ryan Bailey to chat about their gold medal race, life after rowing and the upcoming Olympic cycle.

Leinster and Ireland player Devin Toner joined Ryan Bailey to chat about setting up for life after rugby and the apprehensions that come with it; how he's managed to be one of the most consistently fit players over the years and more.

All-Ireland winner and Dublin full-back Sinead Finnegan joined us on the Ladies Football Show to talk about how competitive the Dublin panel was this year and sharing an All-Ireland win with her sister. The42's Kevin O'Brien also joined us to recap on the timeline of events with the Mayo and Carnacon's ladies teams.

Three time All-Ireland winner with Tyrone Sean Cavanagh joins Kevin O'Brien to talk about his career and his new autobiography, "The Obsession".

We're joined by Cork captain Ciara O'Sullivan, Tyrone captain Neamh Woods and Louth captain Kate Flood to preview this Sunday's All-Ireland junior, intermediate and senior football finals.

Galway's Sinead Burke and Cork's Eimear Meaney join us for a review of the semi-finals.

Tipperary's Aisling McCarthy joins us to chat about losing Tipperary's relegation battle with Cavan at the weekend and what's next for the county that showed so much promise in recent years. And Galway's Ailbhe Davoren joins us to talk about the bad news she received on her cruciate ligament and her county's semi-final this coming weekend.

'We don't really want to take the medals off because then you're back to reality' When the Irish women's hockey team reached the World Cup final in London, it was a first for an Irish team. Chloe Watkins, who scored the penalty that put them through to the semi-final, called in to the office to talk about how special an experience it was.

Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville chats to Ryan Bailey about the upcoming Liam Miller tribute match, his World Cup punditry and how he sees the new Premier League season shaping up.

Murray Kinsella joins us from Sydney with the reaction from Sydney just after Joe Schmidt and Michael Cheika's press conferences.

Murray Kinsella joins Gavan Casey for a breakdown of the squads ahead of Saturday's series decider in Sydney.

Murray Kinsella joins us from Melbourne with all the reaction from the post-match press conferences as Ireland beat Australia.

Murray Kinsella joined Gavan Casey from Melbourne to give an update on how Ireland are looking ahead of Saturday's second test with the Wallabies in Melbourne. After losing the first test, Ireland need a win here to keep the series alive.

Murray Kinsella joined Gavan Casey following the post-match press conferences in Suncorp Stadium after Ireland's loss to Australia.

Eddie O’Sullivan joins Murray and Gavan to preview Leinster v Racing 92 this weekend.

Tipp manager Shane Ronayne and Meath captain Niamh O'Sullivan join Emma Duffy to preview a big weekend in football, with the league finals taking place this weekend.

Former Ireland head coach Eddie O'Sullivan joins Murray Kinsella and Gavan Casey to preview this weekend's Champions Cup semi-finals - Leinster v Scarlets and Munster v Racing 92.

Mayo ladies senior football manager Peter Leahy joins Emma in studio today to preview this weekend's semi-finals and chat about Cora Staunton's possible return to Mayo. Galway's Sarah Conneally also joins us from Galway via Skype to talk about Galway's season, and also school's football, as her own Coláiste Baile Chláir aim to win a junior title this weekend too.

Tyrone's Neamh Woods and Armagh's Caroline O'Hanlon, two members of Northern Ireland's netball team at this year's Commonwealth Games, join Emma Duffy to chat about their inter-county and international careers.

Former Munster and Ireland scrum-half and accomplished dancer Tomás O'Leary joined Gavan Casey and Murray Kinsella on his home turf of Cork to look ahead to Munster, Leinster and Connacht's European games this weekend.

Galway footballer Áine McDonagh joined Emma Duffy to talk about the Galway team, her Cuala ties and her accidental red card against Donegal last year.

The Mayo sisters join Jackie Cahill to talk about coming up against each other in the final of the O'Connor Cup and who their parents were shouting for. They also look ahead to Mayo's upcoming season and the possible return of Cora Staunton.

Murray Kinsella and Ryan Bailey are live to look back on the Irish squad that won this year's Six Nations Grand Slam. How did each individual perform within Joe Schmidt's systems? Who stood out and where can Ireland improve? How did you rate each player's contribution? Let us know below.

Former Ireland forward Mike McCarthy joins Murray Kinsella and Gavan Casey to preview one of the biggest weekends in recent Irish rugby history as Ireland attempt to win their third Grand Slam against England in Twickenham.

Tipperary's Aisling Moloney and Emma Duffy from The42.ie join us from the TG4 All Stars tour to Bangkok.

Former Leinster, Connacht and Ireland hooker, and current Dragons head coach Bernard Jackman joins Gavan Casey and Murray Kinsella to look ahead to Ireland's game against Scotland tomorrow, and where the head coaches themselves will be attacking on either side.

Emma Duffy is joined by Clare and UL's Laurie Ryan and Galway and UCD's Nicola Ward, who will both be taking part in the O'Connor Cup this weekend.

Grand Slam (and underage All-Ireland winner) Tomás O'Leary joins Murray Kinsella and Gavan Casey for an in-depth look at Ireland's big test against Wales in the Aviva tomorrow.

Mayo star and GWS Giant Cora Staunton joins Emma Duffy and Jackie Cahill from Sydney to chat about her new life and look at the first few games of the ladies football league.

Stephen Ferris joins Murray Kinsella and Gavan Casey to look ahead to Ireland's second game of the Six Nations. After a tense finish to last week's match against France, Ireland will face Conor O'Shea's Italian side at home.

Steve O'Rourke and Gavan Casey look ahead to tonight's game. Will Tom Brady earn his SIXTH Super Bowl ring, or will Nick Foles guide the Eagles to victory instead?

Former Ireland prop Mike Ross joins The42's Murray Kinsella and Gavan Casey to cast an eye on Ireland's opening Six Nations clash with France tomorrow. They also look ahead to the 2018 Championship as a whole and Murray picks out some of the key aspects of Ireland's play that Joe Schmidt has been working on. Recorded in front of a live audience with thanks to Volkswagen.

Former Kildare captain Johnny Doyle joins Gavan Casey and Kevin O'Brien to preview the 2018 GAA leagues.

Ben Blake and Gavan Casey look ahead to Ireland's Nations League campaign, in which they were drawn in a group with old World Cup foes Denmark and Wales earlier today.

We're joined by Johne Murphy to preview a huge weekend for Irish teams in the Champions Cup. Do you think Munster and Ulster will make it to the quarter-finals?

Gavan Casey and Sean Farrell look at the big talking points as Joe Schmidt names his 36-man squad for the opening two Six Nations games.

Gavan Casey and Ryan Bailey are joined by Madrid-based football writer Dermot Corrigan to preview one of the biggest games in football, El Clasico between La Liga leaders Barcelona and Real Madrid, who are showing a dip in form of late.

As Munster and Leicester prepare to do battle, we're joined by a man who played for both teams, Johne Murphy, to preview that and the rest of the weekend's Champions Cup action.

Former Ireland head coach Eddie O'Sullivan joins Gavan Casey for another episode of Close Calls with Eirsport, this week looking ahead to a big weekend of rugby for the Irish teams in Europe.

IT WAS ALWAYS one of the biggest days on the league calendar, but does Manchester United v Arsenal bring the same levels of excitement as it used to? Jack Pitt-Brooke of The Independent joins Gavan Casey and Ryan Bailey to chat about that for the latest episode of Close Calls with Eirsport.

Former Ireland head coach Eddie O'Sullivan joins Gavan Casey to cast an eye back at Ireland's November series and tackle the big questions heading into the 2018 Six Nations.

Former Ireland head coach Eddie O'Sullivan joins Gavan Casey to chat about Ireland's final November international against Argentina. It's the sides' first meeting since the quarter-finals of the 2015 World Cup, which Argentina won. This was recorded live as part of Close Calls with Eirsport.

Olympic medalist and current 4-0 professional boxer Michael Conlan joins Gavan Casey and Niall Kelly to preview a big weekend of boxing in Belfast, with his brother Jamie, Paddy Barnes and Carl Frampton all fighting on The Jackal's 'Frampton Reborn' card in the SSE Arena.

Join The42's Gavan Casey, Paul Dollery and Ben Blake to preview the Republic of Ireland's decisive second leg playoff game against Denmark in the Aviva tonight. Try to keep the nerves under control!

Eddie O'Sullivan joins Gavan Casey to cast an eye back at Ireland's 38-3 win over South Africa on Saturday and do their best to answer some of the questions that have come from the game including, who will make up Ireland's center pairing with Bundee Aki now in the frame?

We're live from Copenhagen, fresh from the Danish and Irish press conferences with all the latest news on the ground. Check out The42.ie and give us your prediction to win a pair of tickets to Ireland's decisive home leg game next Tuesday. With thanks to Eirsport.

Former Munster and Leicester player Johne Murphy joins Gavan Casey to look ahead to Saturday's opening November international against South Africa. They also look at who's in the squad, and who's not, as the IRFU's eligibility criteria creates selection dilemmas,

Gavan Casey is joined by Neal Horgan and Stuart Byrne to preview Sunday's FAI Cup final between Dundalk and Cork City, which has had an interesting build-up.

One of Ireland's most decorated amateur athletes of all time will attempt to win the world title in Cardiff's Principality Stadium tomorrow night. We're joined by former WBO middleweight world champion Andy Lee to preview the fight, as well as our own Gavan Casey over in Cardiff, who speaks to us just after the weigh ins.

Former Ireland head coach Eddie O'Sullivan joins Gavan Casey and Ryan Bailey to look at the controversy surrounding the vacant Irish women's job, Johann Van Graan's announcement as Munster head coach and how the Irish teams fared in the Champions Cup last weekend, and how he sees this weekend panning out.

The Independent's chief football writer, Miguel Delaney, joined Gavan Casey and Ben Blake ahead of Liverpool and Manchester United's huge game this weekend. The lads look at the key match-ups in the game, as well as casting a quick eye back to Ireland's win in Cardiff on Monday. We also have some input from Colm 'Gooch' Cooper, an avid Liverpool fan, on how he thinks the game will go. With thanks to EirSport.

Dundee player and Irish international Darren O'Dea joins Niall Kelly and Ben Blake to look ahead to Ireland's must-win games against Moldova and Wales this weekend, while also discussing Martin O'Neill's new deal, the new players called up to the squad and the fire that will push the Irish team against Wales on Monday night. With thanks to EirSport.

The final game of the ladies' football season will take place this Sunday, in another Dublin v Mayo final. Both teams are hoping to end All-Ireland droughts, with Dublin last winning it in 2010 and Mayo last winning way back in 2003. Joining Gavan Casey to preview the game is The42.ie's Emma Duffy and former Dublin footballer, and general all-rounder, Lindsay Peat.

Former Kildare captain Johnny Doyle joins Gavan Casey and Kevin O'Brien to look back at Sunday's historic win for Dublin and to look at what's next for a disappointed Mayo team.

Former Mayo footballer Billy Joe Padden joins Gavan Casey and Fintan O'Toole to preview the All-Ireland football final on Sunday between Dublin and Mayo. We also get predictions for former All-Ireland winners Sean Cavanagh and Marc Ó Sé.

Eight-time All Star and four-time All-Ireland winner Jenny O'Leary joins Gavan Casey and Sinead O'Carroll to preview this weekend's camogie final between Cork and reigning champions Kilkenny. We also get a prediction from another Cork legend - Anna Geary.

Close Calls #4 previews Sunday's All-Ireland Senior Hurling final between Galway and Waterford. Joining Gavan Casey are former Tipperary All-Star Shane McGrath and The 42's GAA editor, Fintan O'Toole, while we will also hear from Kilkenny's nine-time All-Ireland winner, Jackie Tyrrell. Due to some technical issues this is a slightly edited version of Friday's Live show. Leave your prediction in the comments for a chance to win one of the final pairs of tickets to Sunday's big match.

Former Kildare captain Johnny Doyle joins Gavan Casey and Niall Kelly to look back at Dublin's win over Tyrone yesterday, including Con O'Callaghan's mature performance and the death of the blanket defence. They also look at the Mayo and Kerry game and whether Mayo have the potential to end their All-Ireland drought this year. Finally, as we head towards the ultimate game of the season, the lads weigh up the various footballer-of-the-year options.

Gavan Casey is joined by boxers Jason Quigley and Eric Donovan, as well as UFC fighter Joe Duffy, who beat Conor McGregor by submission a few years ago, to preview the big fight in Vegas tomorrow night. We'll also hear from Conor's coach, John Kavanagh, about his future in the octagon/ ring.

Former Irish centre Lynne Cantwell joined Gavan Casey to look back at a disappointing rugby World Cup for Ireland's women and the positives and negatives from the last few weeks.

Former Mayo midfielder David Brady joined Fintan O'Toole and Gavan Casey to look back at yesterday's semi-final draw between Kerry and Mayo, including the interesting decision to play Aidan O'Shea at full-back against Kieran Donaghy and next Saturday's decider.

Cork senior football captain Paul Kerrigan joined Gavan Casey and Fintan O'Toole to preview Sunday's All-Ireland semi-final clash between Mayo and Kerry in Croke Park. Having played against both teams this year, the Nemo Rangers man is in a unique position to judge the clash.

Former Ireland centre Lynne Cantwell joined Gavan Casey to cast an eye back over Ireland's exciting win over Japan in the Women's Rugby World Cup at the weekend, including a dominant display from winger Alison Miller. They also looked ahead to tomorrow's game against France, which will be a tough test for the team.

Eight-time All-Ireland winner Richie Power joined Gavan and Fintan for another episode of The GAA Show this morning to look back at Waterford's win over Cork yesterday and tee up an exciting All-Ireland Final. Apologies for the poor sound quality. We experienced some technical difficulties during the broadcast.

Miguel Delaney, chief football writer with The Independent, joins Gavan Casey and Niall Kelly to look ahead to a brand-new Premier League season. Close Calls is brought to you by eir Sport

Former Irish centre Lynne Cantwell joins Gavan Casey to look back at Ireland's opening match of the 2017 Women's Rugby World Cup against Australia.

Dublin hurler Liam Rushe joined Gavan Casey and Fintan O'Toole for the latest episode of the GAA Show, where they looked back at the weekend's GAA action. The guys discussed Galway's heroic single-point victory over Tipp, Waterford's chances without De Búrca and how the football championship is shaping.

Former Roscommon goalkeeper and All-Ireland club winner Shane Curran joins The42's Fintan O'Toole and Gavan Casey to discuss the weekend's GAA action including the Rossies' draw against Mayo, a resurgent Kieran Donaghy, and how Monaghan can try to trouble the Dubs next weekend.

Tipperary All-Star and All-Ireland winner Shane McGrath joins The42's Fintan O'Toole and Gavan Casey to discuss the weekend's GAA action including Davy Fitzgerald's latest shot at the media, Tipp's leaky defence, Mayo's resilience, and the new Páirc Uí Chaoimh. Theme music credit: Otis McDonald - 3rd Eye Blimp (Creative Commons licence)

And so the Lions' 2017 tour of New Zealand comes to an end in what was a huge anti-climax. Former Ireland head coach, and 2005 Lions coach, Eddie O'Sullivan joined Gavan Casey for a review of the tour, looking at Gatland's calls, the future of the Lions and the closing gulf between the northern and southern hemispheres.

In the final test of the Lions 2017 tour of New Zealand, a 15-15 scoreline meant that they drew a series for the second time, with the last time being the 1955 tour of South Africa. Murray Kinsella joined Gavan Casey from New Zealand with his reaction to the match, including the late penalty that Romain Poite denied, which could have changed the result.

Murray Kinsella joins Gavan Casey from New Zealand to discuss last night's squad announcements, with Steve Hansen handing first starts to both Jordie Barrett and Ngani Laumape. Gatland has decided to name an unchanged squad for the Lions, despite question marks over certain players.

Former Ireland head coach Eddie O'Sullivan joins Gavan Casey to analyse the good and bad from last Saturday's test and weigh up the Lions' chances of pulling off an historic win.

Gavan Casey is joined by Murray Kinsella on the line from Wellington to look back on the Lions' 24-21 win in their second Test against the All Blacks.

Murray Kinsella joined Gavan Casey from New Zealand to discuss the team selections of the Lions and All Blacks for the second crucial Test this coming Saturday. Peter O'Mahony missed out the most, as he went from captain for the first Test, to not making the match day 23 for the second one. The guys also look at Alun Wyn Jones making the team at the expense of George Kruis and the Sexton/ Farrell partnership that will start the game.

Former Ireland head coach and Lions coach Eddie O'Sullivan joined Gavan Casey to cast a quick look back at the Lions' draw with the Hurricanes in Wellington, before looking ahead to their crucial second Test against the All Blacks this Saturday.

The42's Murray Kinsella dials in from Eden Park to analyse the hosts' 30-15 win over Warren Gatland's side.

Ryan Bailey was joined by Murray Kinsella live from Hamilton, where he watched the Lions put in a convincing win against the Chiefs. The match was the last chance for any of the midweek team to stake their claims on a test jersey but did any of them do enough? Murray and Ryan also look ahead to the match against the All Blacks at the weekend.

Murray Kinsella joins Ryan Bailey from Rotorua to look back at the Lions' win over the Maori All Blacks this morning, where Johnny Sexton threw down a huge claim for the No. 10 test shirt and Peter O'Mahony his own claim for the captaincy. They guys also look at the controversial decision to call up extra Lions members based on their geographic proximity.

Murray Kinsella joins Sean Farrell live from Dunedin with reaction to the Lions' loss to the Highlanders this morning.

Murray Kinsella joins Ryan Bailey live from Christchurch, where the Lions recorded their second victory of their tour against Super Rugby leaders the Crusaders earlier. The win got their tour back on track, after their midweek loss to the Blues. The Irish players really stood out in this game and are making their cases for test places. And there was an impressive partnership from Sexton at 10 and Farrell at 12, but who will be the test out-half?

Murray Kinsella joins Ryan Bailey from Eden Park in New Zealand, with reaction to the Lions' defeat to the Blues in Auckland, and look ahead to their tough clash with The Crusaders on Saturday.

Murray Kinsella is joined by former Ireland head coach Eddie O'Sullivan to analyse a disappointing weekend for Irish rugby as both Munster and Leinster lost their Champions Cup semi-finals. Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)

Murray Kinsella is joined by Lynne Cantwell to review an up-and-down Six Nations and Ireland's final weekend flourish to deny England their Grand Slam and Test record. Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)

Murray Kinsella is joined by Eddie O'Sullivan to review Ireland's 22-9 defeat against Wales in Cardiff. Are Joe Schmidt's side too predictable in attack? How costly were their close-range failings? Was Johnny Sexton’s yellow card fair? Should Peter O’Mahony come into the starting team for England? Why did Conor Murray play on after being injured in the first half? Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)

Murray Kinsella is joined by Johne Murphy to look ahead to Friday night's Six Nations showdown between Wales and Ireland in Cardiff. Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)

Murray Kinsella is joined by former Ireland head coach Eddie O'Sullivan to analyse the 19-9 win over France. Also up for discussion is Italy's 'tackle-only' tactic which caused England all sorts of problems in Twickenham. This podcast is the audio version of our Six Nations Show video series, which was broadcast live here: http://bit.ly/2lZgJ9x Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)

Former Ireland head coach Eddie O'Sullivan joins Murray Kinsella to preview Ireland's third game of the 2017 Six Nations Championship against France.

Murray Kinsella is joined by Leinster and Ireland's Sean Cronin to analyse the nine-try win against Italy. We discuss the best bits of Ireland's victory, including the work done by the ball carrier after the tackle, the forwards' passing, and the set piece attack. This podcast is the audio version of our Six Nations Show video series, which is available here: https://youtu.be/FPXRnkgbW44 Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)

Murray Kinsella is joined by Johne Murphy to analyse Ireland's opening weekend defeat to Scotland. We discuss how the hosts broke through the Irish defence, the performance of the lineout, and look ahead to Rome. This podcast is the audio version of our Six Nations Show video series, which is available here: https://youtu.be/OOeEFZQneKg Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)

Former Ireland head coach Eddie O'Sullivan joins Murray Kinsella to discuss a wide-open Six Nations, how Ireland score their tries, their kicking game and, of course, their 2017 predictions. This podcast is the audio version of our Six Nations Show video series, which is available here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7xEdkNxG4c Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)

Trevor Hogan joins Murray Kinsella to review Ireland's defeat of Scotland, assess the overall tournament performance and pick the team for the South Africa tour this summer.

Ireland ended their year on a high with a defeat of Australia at the Aviva Stadium. Joe Schmidt's now head into the 2017 Six Nations with confidence and a much-strengthened squad, as well as various new faces who've made big impressions throughout November. Former Ireland head coach Eddie O'Sullivan joined Murray Kinsella in The42 newsroom to dissect the Irish tries, Andy Farrell's impact in defence, the side's discipline and much more. Let us know what you think in the comment section below. MORE READING: Analysis: David Pocock's understanding of the laws leads to a unique turnover http://the42.ie/3105859

Former Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan joins Murray Kinsella to discuss Ireland's 21-9 defeat against the All Blacks. This podcast is the audio version of our Six Nations Show video series, which is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKNIR4xCijQ

Shane Jennings joins Murray Kinsella to reflect a disappointing weekend for Irish rugby as Joe Schmidt saw his side lose to the Springboks and the U20s missed out on a world title to England.

Johne Murphy joins Murray Kinsella to dissect a massive win against the Springboks.

Former Ireland head coach Eddie O'Sullivan joins Murray Kinsella at The42 HQ to preview Ireland's tour of South Africa.

Shane Jennings joins Murray Kinsella to review Ireland's defeat of Italy and look ahead to their tournament finale against Scotland in Dublin this weekend. We recorded the show before the team announcement on Thursday. Let us know what you think.

Irish rugby legend Lynne Cantwell joins Murray Kinsella in The42 newsroom to talk in-depth about tactics and how to create a winning game plan. This podcast is the audio version of our Six Nations Show video series, which is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PmRnfL68rk Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)

Ireland and Leinster's Luke Fitzgerald joins Murray Kinsella in The42 newsroom to discuss Ireland's defeat in London. This podcast is the audio version of our Six Nations Show video series, which is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAyGyxq6ktE Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)

Murray Kinsella chats to former Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan about England's new head coach Eddie Jones, their attack, and their defensive system under Paul Gustard. Eddie joined us via video link so apologies for the drop in sound quality in places. This podcast is the audio version of our Six Nations Show video series, which is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--Oy-28j5hA Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)

Murray Kinsella and former Ireland international Shane Jennings analyse Ireland's defeat in France, the breakdown battle, attacking patterns in the opposition 22, and more. This podcast is the audio version of our Six Nations Show video series, which is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2j5vKtLxJI Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)

Murray Kinsella chats to former Ireland international Trevor Hogan about the draw against Wales, the trip to France, the retirement of the great Paul O'Connell and more. This podcast is the audio version of our Six Nations Show video series, which is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7__14q-oB0 Theme music credit: Pitx - Found Smoke (Creative Commons licence)