Giovanni Trapattoni is ready for whatever the European Championship play-off draw throws at his Ireland team on Thursday.

Ireland go into the eight strong draw for the November play-offs as one of four seeded teams along with Portugal, Croatia and the Czech Republic according to the FAI.

The Republic will draw Montenegro, Turkey, Estonia or Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Trap’s team sealed their place in the play-off lottery thanks to Tuesday night’s fortuitous 2-1 win at home to Armenia and the manager is prepared for all eventualities next month.

“All the second-placed teams are very important. We must accept whichever team,” said Trapattoni.

________________

Read More:

Ireland defeat Armenia 2-1 and qualify for a play-off spot in European championship

Ireland won the hard way, again, against Armenia to enter the playoffs for the European Championships

Ireland soccer team players want a new deal for Giovanni Trapattoni

________________

“The first and second teams in the table are always great teams. But I think it would be better to play the first game away and the second at home.

“We have only done 50% of the job because there is now the play-off.”

Like his manager, stand-in captain Shay Given doesn’t care who Ireland get in the play-off draw, to be made in the Polish city of Krakow on Thursday morning.

“Ah nah, we’ll just take it on the chin,” said Given. “Whoever we play will know they are in for a very tough game when they come here.

“We’ll give them a tough game at their home place as well. Please God, we can get across the line this time and get through the play-offs.”