IRELAND MANAGER Martin O’Neill admits that the world-conquering Germans are the hot favourites for top spot in the sides’ Euro 2016 pool.
But the former Celtic and Aston Villa boss insists his Boys in Green outfit ‘won’t roll over’ for Jogi Loew’s team.
“They are the best team in our group but that doesn’t mean we’ll roll over,” O’Neill told The Last Word presenter, Matt Cooper, on Today FM yesterday.
“I’d give anything to qualify for France. Anything. We have as good a chance as any other team in the group aside from Germany, perhaps.
He continued: “I want [the players] to go into the games and feel they have a real chance. I want them to play with the pride and determination that is expected of them when they pull on the shirt.”
O’Neill was speaking at an FAI event at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre alongside his assistant Roy Keane.
“Germany would be hot favourites to top the group,” agreed, newly appointed Villa coach, Keane. ”All the other teams would think they have the chance to finish second or third.
“I think the group will be exciting, and very tough. But like when I was playing, we have to believe we can go out there and win every single game.”
