Razor calls for Ireland to take risks and play soccer without fear

Martin O’Neill must take the shackles off the Republic of Ireland and let them play without fear if they have any hope of qualifying for next summer’s European Championships.

At least that is the view of Ireland legend Ray Houghton, who believes that the second-half fight-back in Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Poland can act as a spark to ignite the remainder of qualifying campaign.

A late Shane Long goal secured the vital point at the Aviva Stadium, but Ireland sit fourth in Group D and must make the most of their remaining games if they want to secure a place at next year’s finals in France.