Trap: We have no reason to fear any team

The Republic of Ireland will find out their groups for the Euro 2012 finals this evening and manager Giovanni Trapattoni has said his team is no longer just “little Ireland”.

Trapattoni and FAI chief executive John Delaney arrived in the Ukraine capital, Kiev, last night for the draw that takes place this evening.

Trapattoni believes his side have no need to be afraid of any of their potential opponents.

Trapattoni said: "There can be no ideal scenario because, remember, we are fourth seeds, but I have no problem about us playing against the big teams.

“We are not just ‘little Ireland’. Other teams have their weapons but we have ours. Over three games of 90 minutes, with our strength and mentality, there is no reason for us to have any fear.

"It is not easy, but with our mentality we can do well."

Republic of Ireland midfielder Stephen Hunt has faith in his team mates to get them far in the competition.

The Wolves player said: “We have a certain way of playing, we have good players in the team that are skilful, we have probably one of the best wingers in Premiership history in Damien Duff over the last 10 to 12 years.

“When it comes to the major tournaments, it is different, everyone is away from home, no team is playing at home and it is a different competition. Let’s hope we can do well.”

England’s director of football development Sir Trevor Brooking has said a group which pitches together the Three Lions and the Republic would be very competitive.

Brooking said: “The Republic of Ireland for us would be a massive match which would probably be harder than anyone else in the fourth pot.

“What on paper might be a tough group with Ireland in it might be better for us, because then there is no expectancy on us, people might say we are going to struggle through the group and then suddenly we might surprise people.”

Brooking said he wouldn't be too upset if Fabio Capello's side come up against the hosts.

He said: “At home I am sure Ukraine and Poland will be difficult, but looking at the rankings and results, naturally Spain and Holland would be the two to avoid out of that leading pot.”

Former England boss Terry Venables said there are some obvious sides Capello will want to miss.

Venables said: “We need to avoid Spain, France and Portugal.”