O'Shea believes Ireland can replicate Germany shock against Portugal

With playoff hopes fading and Evan Ferguson ruled out, John O’Shea insists Ireland can summon the spirit of their Germany upset as Ronaldo’s Portugal visit a sold-out Aviva Stadium.

John O'Shea was part of the Ireland team which shocked Germany a decade ago. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

John O’Shea believes Ireland can replicate his Germany upset of a decade ago when they host Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal on Thursday.

Five dropped points in the opening September double-header are the primary reason why Ireland will likely need at least four against the top two seeds to stand any chance of snaffling the playoff route to next year’s World Cup.