Ireland captain Seamus Coleman has underlined the buoyant team spirit within the camp as the Boys in Green look to tighten their grip on the top of their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying group.
The Irish side welcome a Wales side with a similar togetherness on Friday night at the Aviva Stadium, with Ireland top of UEFA Group D on 10 points and the Welsh four points further back.
While Ireland haven't always performed brilliantly throughout the qualifying campaign so far, the fact that Martin O'Neill's side are top of the group speaks of a determination and togetherness among the squad.
Everton right back Coleman highlighted as Friday's fixture closes in amid an injury crisis for Ireland.
"All the lads just love meeting up and we've a few injuries but there's players desperate to put on that green shirt and perform. So really look forward to this game," he said.
Coleman also spoke of his respect for what Wales star Gareth Bale has and is achieving in the game. But he is not fazed by the threat posed by the Welsh talisman.
"He's really kicked on and gone on to great things, and I wish him well of course," he said.
"But we're a team who played against big players in the past. I remember when we played Sweden in summer all the talk was about Zlatan and it's quite similar this time, but we're fully focused on our job and we're looking forward to the game."
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