Irish manager Giovanni Trapattoni has insisted that a top Irish side come to new York next week to play a friendly against Spain in Yankee Stadium. Some players had tried to skip the game but Trap insisted a strong squad travel.

"It's important. I have a family too but it's professional discipline. You can make other time to rest.

"When I was a player, I never turned down these opportunities. Players need to rest as they have played many games, but it's also important to see on the list the famous names like [Richard] Dunne, [John] O'Shea and McCarthy.

"We have accepted to play this game against Spain and the Irish people in New York deserve respect. They are paying for tickets, but not to see the second team.

"Our players must understand that it's only for three days."