Trapattoni hopes Leeds' Paul Green could help contain Sweden

Republic of Ireland’s manager Giovanni Trapattoni believes that Leeds’ defensive midfielder Paul Green could help to contain Sweden mighty attackers, Ibrahimovic in particular.

If Ireland are to keep on the course of claiming the second place in the Group C, they have to secure a win over Sweden, or at least hold them to a draw. Ireland are occupying the third spot, one point behind the third-placed Sweden with a game in the hand on group leaders Germany.

Trapattoni revealed he has decided to include Paul Green over Wigan’s James McCarthy, as he reckons this change could prove key for the successful defensive display. Italian said: “The next match will obviously be very important. It will be important to keep in mind there is only one point between us and Sweden in our pool. As always every little detail is important to achieve the result. International games are a little bit different physically, in attitude, mentality, personality.”

“If we are to have this balance, if Seamus Coleman goes forward (from right-back), I said we must also push the defensive line. We have to stay in this position. Paul Green has the attitude. There are famous names - Gattuso. He was a player with character and attitude. He won the Italian league and Champions League. There have been players in England. Remember Nobby Stiles? They are players who were not full of class like Lionel Messi, but football is not only this,” Trap added.