Shaughnessy: We don’t fear Spanish

COMMANDING centre-back Joe Shaughnessy insists there’s a lot more to Ireland’s game than the physical stereotype emanating from the Spain camp ahead of tonight’s European Championship semi-final.

Ireland are 90 minutes away from marking their first appearance at the finals for nine years with a place in Monday’s final at Chiajna. However, the air of confidence which has followed the Spanish side dominated by Real Madrid starlets throughout the tournament had one of their playmakers forecasting a simple recipe for success yesterday.

“Ireland are a very physical team and are well-placed on the field,” Real Sociedad midfielder Rubén Pardo.