John O’Shea warns lose to Scotland and we’re on rocks

After a long build-up and various sub-plots being floated, Ireland’s John O’Shea has cut through the froth surrounding this evening’s Euro 2016 qualifier to revisit first principles.

Martin O’Neill may be putting on a diplomatic face by declaring defeat against Scotland won’t derail Ireland’s qualification prospects but his vice-captain, who will skipper the team should Robbie Keane be kept in reserve, has a different outlook.

Asked if the message emerging from the Scottish camp this week that the pressure is all on Ireland represents mind-games, O’Shea didn’t flinch.