Roy Keane praised the Republic of Ireland's preparations and says the squad is excited to start playing on Saturday (11th June).

SOUNDBITE (English) Roy Keane, Republic of Ireland assistant manager:

(on Ireland's game with Sweden)

"We know it's going to be tough, but we believe if we're at it and we perform as well as we can we've got a good chance of getting a result against Sweden. But our intention is not focused on the other games or if we can beat Sweden. I think that was a mistake Ireland made in the last campaign. I think everyone had guaranteed they were going to win the last game and then maybe nick a draw. You can't think that way, you can't think that way. If we play well then we have a chance, but if we're not quite at it there's every chance we're going to get beaten."

SOUNDBITE (English) Roy Keane, Republic of Ireland assistant manager:

(on the beginning of the European Championship)

"We're looking forward to it. I think the buzz is there now and the fact that the games started last night. It was great to see the opening ceremony and the first game of football. I think we were all looking forward to that, the players, the staff. We are here to enjoy it, but it's no doubt fantastic for the supporters. You can feel it already, but we're obviously professional people. We have to get results. Enjoy it yeah, but I'm pretty sure we'll enjoy a lot more if we get the right results."