It possibly arrived at the wrong time for in-form Burnley, as another international break halted proceedings in the Premier League. Yet Republic of Ireland's Jeff Hendrick will return with a spring in his step after mixed outings for Sean Dyche's international stars.
Unbeaten trips for Burnley's home nation players
Hendrick was part of an Ireland team that had not beaten Austria for 53 years, but a slim 1-0 victory sent them top of Group D with the Burnley central midfielder playing a vital role in the engine room of his nation.
Clubmate Sam Vokes finds himself in the same group as Hendrick, representing Wales who are in third place and four points behind their neighbours across the water. Vokes was named up front against Serbia where they were held to a 1-1 draw by a late equaliser.
Tom Heaton rounded off Burnley's home nations involvement and was enjoying a successful second half in a friendly against Spain for England going into the final few minutes. Yet a late Spanish double earned the visitors a draw against Wembley with Heaton left disappointed not to keep out the two late efforts.
Gudmundsson proves his set-piece credentials
Johann Berg Gudmundsson had a mixed few days with Iceland, losing their first match against Croatia which leaves the Euro 2016 heroes third in their group. The midfielder dropped to the substitutes bench in the midweek friendly against Malta but came on to create a goal with a swinging corner.
Steven Defour rounded off Burnley's international involvement as he played a part in Belgium's 1-1 draw against Holland. The midfielder was overlooked for the 8-1 demolition of Estonia though as he continues to build his match practice and work his way back to full fitness.
All eyes now turn to the Clarets' Premier League campaign as they look to extend their run of seven points from three games.