Shay Given has vowed Ireland will not fear any opponents in the play-offs for the World Cup finals.
Ireland keeper hoping to secure another finals appearance
Shay Given has vowed the Republic of Ireland will not fear any opponents in the play-offs for the World Cup finals.
Ireland have finished runners-up to holders Italy in their qualifying group and will learn their play-off fate in the draw next Monday.
The likes of France, Portugal and Russia could all lie in wait for Ireland, who can look back on mixed experiences of the play-offs.
Given was part of the side which lost out to Belgium for a place in the 1998 World Cup before playing his role in overcoming Iran for a spot at the 2002 tournament.
And the experienced keeper, who will mark his 100th cap by captaining Ireland against Montenegro on Wednesday, is determined to secure another appearance at the World Cup finals.
Nerve-wracking time
"It's going to be a nerve-wracking time for everyone, I suppose," said Given. "We all want to be there.
"I have been in the play-offs before - we have lost one and won one as well, and I know which feeling I preferred.
"The highlight of my career was getting to the World Cup, and we would love to get back there.
"We know it's going to be tough, but we don't fear anyone. We played the world champions on Saturday and but for a minute or two, we would have won the game, so we don't fear anyone going into next month."
