Mick McCarthy: ‘Total b*****ks’ to think Ireland will play weakened Italy team

"Mark my words – the Italians want to finish with nine points and beat us."

Former Ireland manager Mick McCarthy believes the Republic of Ireland face a tough task tomorrow - and said it would be foolish to rely on facing a second-string Italy team.

“Everyone is clutching at straws if they think Italy might put out a weakened team against Ireland. It’s nonsense, total b*****ks. They may not play all their best players, but it strikes me that they’ve brought 23 of their best players, not just 11.”