Ireland tied with Iran in world rankings

The Republic of Ireland have slipped to joint 43rd in the latest Fifa world rankings.

Steve Staunton's side are now level with Iran after the 1-0 defeat to Germany in Stuttgart 10 days ago and the 4-0 demolition by Holland in Lansdowne Road in August forced them out of 38th spot.

New manager Steve McClaren already has something to show for his three wins on the trot as England equalled their all-time high fourth place.

Successive post-World Cup victories over Greece, Andorra and Macedonia have helped McClaren's men leapfrog Italy — whose poor form since winning the World Cup sees them slip to fifth.

England were last ranked fourth under Glenn Hoddle's stewardship in December 1997.

Scotland's promising start to their Euro 2008 qualifying campaign means a jump of six places to 34th, while Northern Ireland leap 14 places to 58th after their famous win over Spain.

The heroics of Lawrie Sanchez's men mean they overtake Wales, who slip six places to 62nd.

Up two places to second, France now stand only 40 points behind long-time leaders Brazil, with Argentina still in third.

Holland, Czech Republic, Germany, Portugal and Spain make up the top 10.