Dragons fired up for battle
® WALES are having to get used to starting matches as favourites, says assistant boss Osian Roberts.
But there is no hangover from their heady run to the semi-finals of Euro 2016 as they gear up for Friday night’s World Cup qualifier with the Republic of Ireland in Dublin.
Chris Coleman’s side trail Group D leaders Ireland by four points in the race for a place at Russia 2018.
Roberts said: “We’re all positive going into the Ireland game, we’re unbeaten in the group.
“There’s been no hangover from the Euros.
Clash
“Suddenly, we’re expected to beat teams and beat them comfortably. It shows how far we’ve come.”
The Dragons thumped Moldova 4-0 in their opening qualifier but have since had three draws.
Coleman refuses to label Friday’s clash a must-win game, but anything other than three points would be a major blow for Wales.
“You’ve got to look at the positives. We haven’t lost yet and we haven’t looked like losing,” added Roberts.
“It’s not going to be easy but we’re going into the second half of the campaign competitive and with a realistic chance of going through.”
Liverpool youngster Harry Wilson was called up to the senior squad yesterday to replace the injured Tom Lawrence.