On helping the Vikings deal with the death of rookie Khyree Jackson before the start of the season: head coach Kevin O’Connell told BBC Sport: “It’s not something I’ve experienced before, but I felt it was really important to do a few things. I wanted to let our team authentically feel the emotions they were feeling and work through them. I didn’t want to ask to put it out of their minds.

“The other was guiding in times of adversity. I had to be the rock for our organization, be at the forefront, but also show some vulnerabilities on a personal level so that the boys knew it was okay to grieve and that we would get through this together.”

And Connell, 39, believes the loss of Jackson has provided them with additional inspiration.

“I think so because it allows us to focus and get a reality check that nothing is being given. We understand how blessed and fortunate we are to do this daily because it can be taken away in an instant.

“So let’s make sure we maximize every moment we have together, understanding how special this place is and what the players have built here.”