Trapattoni yet to name Republic line up
Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has refused to name his side facing Spain on Thursday until just hours before the match.
Wednesday, 13 June 2012
The 73-year-old will not name his starting team until hours before the game in Poland, though he has hinted at changes to Ireland's usual 4-4-1 line up. It is thought the side could line up in a 4-5-1 formation in an effort to better limit Spain's all-star midfield.
"Italy and Spain after the first game each have one point. At this moment, it's all open. Only after tomorrow can we say if we have an opportunity or not," said Trapattoni.
A win on Thursday would extend the Republic's time in Poland and even if they finish with just one point it means the side could face Trapattoni's native Italy in their final game.
Republic record goalscorer Robbie Keane said beating Spain could be the biggest result of his career.
"It would certainly be up there," said Keane.
"People have probably written us off and not given us any hope. After losing the other night, it is very important that we get something out of the game because we need to get points on the board as soon as possible."
Meanwhile, the Republic squad had special guests in Poland as Bangor band Snow Patrol visited the team in their hotel after training.
Frontman Gary Lightbody defended his decision to support both Northern Ireland and the Republic.
"I'm a Northern Ireland supporter for sure," he told the Press Association.
"But the Republic of Ireland are in this tournament and I'm getting behind them. It's a tricky subject but they would always be my second team.
"I'm green and white army, no doubt, but I'll also support the Republic when they play."
Lightbody and bandmates guitarist Nathan Connolly, bassist Paul Wilson, drummer Jonny Quinn and keyboardist Tom Simpson met the Ireland team in Sopot before playing concert to about 2,000 fans, half of them were green jerseys.