Richard Dunne has claimed that the Republic of Ireland must believe that they can win Euro 2012 or there is no point in travelling to the tournament.

The Aston Villa centre-back has urged his teammates to show the belief that they can go all the way in the competition, beginning with their opening Group C match against Croatia.

When asked if they can qualify for the quarter-finals, Dunne replied: "Yes, there's no point in us being here otherwise.

"We have to have the belief that we can go all the way and win the tournament - but then every team that's there will believe the same thing.

"We know we are as organised as anyone and as strong as anyone, so it's just about hopefully having that little bit of luck that can help us progress."

Giovanni Trappatoni's team will also face Italy and Spain in Group C.