Czech Republic v Republic of Ireland: O’Shea hopes for ‘straightforward’ contract extension

One major threat the Irish will have to deal with is the towering presence of Czech striker Patrik Schick.

The 30-year-old has scored 24 international goals in 50 appearances, while he has also found the net 15 times for Bayer Leverkusen this season.

Republic of Ireland captain Nathan Collins may well be tasked with keeping tabs on Schick, but the Brentford defender predicts an “exciting” challenge.

“That individual one on one battle in football is a little bit different now,” Collins said.

“I will need everyone around, whether that’s the midfield screening, the boys around me [in defence]. It will be a duel, but it’s not just a one-on-one.

“In the Premier League, there are a lot of big strikers. It’s a trend now but it’s exciting.”

While the 24-year-old will wear the armband this week, Collins has paid tribute to veteran defender Seamus Coleman whose return to the Republic of Ireland squad coincided with an upturn in results.

“The way Seamus is as a character and a person, the effect he has on the squad, it’s huge,” Collins added.

“He brought a lot of belief into the squad and has supported me a lot, taking over some of the roles to allow me to focus on my game.

“He’s helped me a lot and to have someone like him in the squad is crucial.”