Irish manager Giovanni Trapattoni has said that although the side has no creative stars, these limitations are compensated by a strong team spirit.
Trapattoni made the remarks prior to the crucial World Cup qualifier in Sweden on Friday night. Although the campaign is still in its infancy, defeat in Stockholm would make it difficult for Ireland to catch Germany and Sweden at the top of the table.
Speaking to the Irish Examiner, Trapattoni said: “We are not great individual players like (Lionel) Messi or, with Sweden, (Zlatan) Ibrahimovic.
“But we are a good team with good balance, good attitude. We have no creative (Cristiano) Ronaldo or (Lionel) Messi, or other stars, but we are a good team. I am confident for this.
“Every day when I see the team in training I am happy for my side. We play quick and with confidence.”
The Italian went on to add : “This match will obviously be very important for our qualification.
“It will be important to keep in mind there is only one point between us and Sweden in our pool. As always every little detail is important to achieve the result.
“Against these strong teams character, technical (ability) and attitude are important.”
