Republic of Ireland Under-21 manager Don Givens conceded his side had their “backsides smacked” following a miserable European Championship qualifying defeat to Switzerland.

Switzerland Under-21 4 Republic of Ireland Under-21 2

Under-21 manager Don Givens made just one change to a side looking to extend their unbeaten record to 14 matches.

Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Glenn Whelan has revealed Republic of Ireland Under-21s go into each game with the belief they will not be beaten.

Republic of Ireland Under-21 defender John Fitzgerald believes communication will be the key if Brian Kerr’s senior squad are to stop young Swiss sensation Johann Vonlanthen.