Irish take inspiration from Chelsea triumph

GIOVANNI Trapattoni has told his Republic of Ireland players anything is possible as they prepare for their daunting Euro 2012 adventure.

Ireland have been pitched into battle with reigning World and European champions Spain, Trapattoni’s native Italy and Croatia in Group C.

But, having seen Chelsea defy the odds to beat Bayern Munich in the Champions League final having already disposed of the mighty Barcelona in the last four, Trapattoni said: “I think we can have confidence. The opponents, we know are strong.

“But I said also to the players, the example is when Chelsea beat Bayern when Bayern were favourites. That is very important.”

But asked if his team would attempt to set up like Chelsea to frustrate their opponents, the 73-year-old added: “We have other players, another attitude.

“It’s not possible to choose a system or attitude. We have confidence about our mentality, our attitude. With this, we have achieved good results.”