Euro 2016 qualifiers: Rep of Ireland host world champions Germany

Ireland will have plenty of experience throughout their team’s spine for the German encounter in the capital, though will be without suspended James McClean and Glenn Whelan, but Keane expects youth to play a key factor.

The likes of Norwich City’s Robbie Brady and Derby County midfielder Jeff Hendrick are two key younger Irish stars which Keane spoke of in the set-up, which is likely to be without Wes Hoolahan and Seamus Coleman through injury.

Speaking of a potential youthful enthusiasm, Keane added: “Possibly so because of the mindset of those players. Maybe there’s other parts of the game they (younger players) mightn’t be brilliant at. You have to bring something to the party and I suppose that is their mindset, being brave and getting forward.

“We will get opportunities. And that’s where the bravery comes in: don’t be afraid to make a mistake. Particularly if you’re 20 to 30 yards out from goal.”

Veteran Sunderland centre back John O’Shea was his nation’s saviour when these two countries collided on German turf, netting a crucial last-gasp equaliser to secure a 1-1 draw last year, but the Premier League defender will face a tough Thursday evening.

Bayern Munich marksman Thomas Muller has been in incredible form for the Bundesliga champions and also leads Germany’s qualifying scoring charts, with eight strikes in seven outings, and is 4/1 to open proceedings this time out.

Although, Ireland impressively boast the best defensive record in their group, having conceded just five times in eight outings, and another clean sheet against the attacking force of Germany is 6/1, while a triumph to nil is 12/1.

Going forward, Stoke City’s towering Jonathan Walters is set for a potentially decisive battle with Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels, while skipper Robbie Keane is 11/4 to dispatch anytime, 13 years on from that memorable World Cup goal against Germany in South Korea.

Ireland’s Euro 2016 fate could ultimately be decided in this German match-up on home soil, with anything less than a win coupled with a Poland victory assuring they cannot make an automatic qualifying place.

Though a famous win in front of their home supporters would see O’Neill’s Irish squad go into their final clash with Poland with destiny in their own hands.

Betting tip: Germany to win and both teams to score @ 9/4