Ireland and Scotland go head-to-head

Ireland and Scotland go head-to-head with other European nations in the race for Euro 2008 today.

The Gaelic bid team insists the eight required stadia will be ready in plenty of time for the start of the competition, despite doubts over two Irish grounds being available.

Scotland already has four excellent stadia in position.

Here is a glimpse of the ear-marked for use in a successful 2008 bid:

Croke Park

Capacity: 80,000.

The Dublin showpiece of the GAA would be a fabulous addition to a successful Euro 2008 bid. Redeveloped in recent years, Croke Park currently only plays host to Gaelic football and hurling and history dictates soccer has never been allowed at the ground. The bid team would love to have permission for the stadium to be used but must wait for the nod from the GAA.

Stadium Ireland

Proposed capacity: 80,000.

Nicknamed "Bertie Bowl" after Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, the proposed stadium has been at the centre of concern for the 2008 bid. Government funds were vetoed for the building of the ground and, although the bid team insists private finance will be available, question marks have been raised.

Lansdowne Road

Capacity: 35,000.

The home of Irish rugby will need a major overhaul if it is to play host to a successful Euro 2008 bid. Ireland play their home games at the ground but it is owned by the IRFU and temporary seating is required. But, with Stadium Ireland still in the early stages, a period of redevelopment would not be beyond the bid team.

Hampden Park, Glasgow.

Capacity: 52,045.

The Scottish national stadium has history on its side in the Euro 2008 bid. The home of Scottish football was originally built in 1867 and is widely regarded as the oldest stadium in Great Britain. Since its renovation in the 1990s, the Mount Florida stadium has played host to the Champions League final and countless events, including rock concerts and American football. The home of Scottish cup finals was lauded by UEFA and senior football officials for its handling of the game between Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen.

Ibrox

Capacity: 50,444

The home of Glasgow Rangers since 1899, Ibrox has become a European institution. Under the stewardship of former Rangers chairman David Murray has become a magnificent arena earning plaudits from many visiting European teams. When Rangers are at home - particularly in UEFA competitions and against Celtic - the atmosphere is electric.

Parkhead

Capacity: 60,501.

Recent refurbishment has provided Celtic with an astonishing new-look Celtic Park. Prior to its mid-90s renovation, the ground had looked dated but its subsequent overhaul has provided one of the best grounds in Britain, if not Europe. Situated in the east end of the city, the stadium ensures an intimidating atmosphere on big European nights.

Murrayfield

Capacity: 67,500.

Already believed to be in line to host the Euro 2008 final if the bid is successful, the home of Scottish rugby is the biggest stadium available in Scotland. Although football has never been played competitively at the Edinburgh ground, the UEFA delegation which visited in September were hugely impressed by its presence. Rugby World Cup semi-finals have been played at the ground and the stadium is a flagship for the bid team.

Easter Road

Possible capacity: 34,880.

The home of Hibernian Football Club will see its capacity doubled if the bid is successful. The current 17,462 capacity will increase if the ground is chosen as two of the three for use in the finals. Hibs have the advantage of only requiring extensions to their current ground.

Aberdeen

Proposed capacity: 31,400.

The Dons want to build a new stadium in the Kingswells area of the city if they are selected for a successful 2008 bid. Locals are not quite so enthusiastic on the idea but it would prove to be a landmark for the city where Pittodrie has seen better days. However, planning permission has yet to be approved.

Dundee

Proposed capacity: 31,400.

Both Dundee and Dundee United have agreed to share a new stadium in the city after 2008 is completed. Plans are in the pipeline for a new ground on Caird Park which the UEFA delegation flew over on their inspection tour in September.