Damien Duff and Richard Dunne remain confident ahead of game against Spain

Despite Croatia game result Republic of Ireland team are confident

“Whether the referee had that in the back of his mind, I’m not too sure. That’s something you’re going to have to ask him.”
 
Torres Awaits

IRELAND’S defenders have been warned to expect to see Fernando Torres on the pitch when they face Spain in Gdansk.

Spanish boss Vicente Del Bosque caused a stir when he started Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Italy without a recognized striker.

Chelsea star Torres was introduced as a second half sub, but Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni believes he could start on Thursday.

Trap said, “After seeing the game I think that maybe he will start with Torres but Vicente decides his own tactics.

“Maybe he thought the Italians have a good defense and he would play with these small, fast and tactical players.

“He changed when he understood. At this moment, he had the necessity to put up front a big striker and he had a good opportunity.

“I don’t know how he will play against us, whether with Torres or Fernando Llorente, but we know which team we have in front of us, what qualities they have.

“Spain are the world champions. They have 10 players playing for Real Madrid, 10 players playing for Barcelona -- they are missing only Lionel Messi.

“We know their technique, we know their quality. But over 90 minutes, it’s not enough. We must believe.”
 

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Nster.com