Republic of Ireland striker Simon Cox has urged his teammates to play for pride in their final game at Euro 2012 against Italy.

Cox, whose side were eliminated from contention after losing 4-0 to Spain, admits that the Irish struggled to keep up with the likes of Barcelona midfilders Xavi and Andres Iniesta.

"It was difficult," he told reporters. "[Spain] have the likes of [Xabi] Alonso and Xavi and Iniesta.

"We have to pick ourselves up and establish a bit of pride even though we're going home."

Ireland take on Italy in Poznan on Monday.