Staunton ‘delighted’ with Ireland’s Euro 2008 group

Stephen Staunton has said he is delighted with the group Ireland has been placed in for the European 2008 qualifiers.

The Irish boss is facing a major battle securing a place in the finals of the competition after his side was drawn in Group D along with the Czech Republic and Germany.

Slovakia, Wales, Cyprus and San Marino are also in the same group.

Responding to this morning's draw, Staunton said: "I'm delighted with the group. I think it's a good for travel as well as everything else.

"It's going to be difficult for us, we knew that as fourth seeds and all I can say is we'll be giving it a very good shot and we're really looking forward to it."