Martin O’Neill has described the Nations League draw as “déja vu”.
The Republic of Ireland have drawn Wales and Denmark in Group Four of League B in the new tournament, after facing both nations in the World Cup qualifiers last year.
The boys in green beat Wales to seal a play-off, which they lost convincingly to a Christian Eriksen inspired Denmark.
“Well, it is déjà vu for us,” O’Neill said.
“We beat Wales to qualify for the playoffs and then we have got Denmark who beat us in the playoffs and beat us convincingly in the second game,” O’Neill said.
“That is the way we look at it. We certainly want to try and avenge that if it is at all possible because it is still fresh in the memory.
“This is important. There is promotion and relegation and all of those things affect the possible placings eventually for qualifying for the European nations. I am totally in agreement with it.”
The 65 year old also expressed his happiness at signing a new deal with the boys in green.
“I am obviously pleased to do so,” he continued.
“I had conversations with the FAI board. They wanted me to continue in the job and let’s see how we progress.
“We have got a group of older players who have served the country brilliantly and we have a group of younger players who are trying to make their way at club level for a start.
“One or two of them have a bit of experience now with the qualification for the Euros and the disappointment of losing to Denmark in the playoffs for the World Cup.
“So with all of those things taken into consideration, I think the younger players should have that drive and determination to try and do something.
“I am staying, I am with the Republic of Ireland and I am delighted to be so.”
david_smith
