Darren O'Dea not scared of Germany

Republic of Ireland defender Darren O'Dea has claimed that he does not fear facing Germany as he prepares for arguably the toughest match of his career.

The 25-year-old is likely to start alongside John O'Shea in the centre of the Ireland defence when they face Germany in a World Cup qualifier on Friday.

Despite Germany's reputation as one of the best international teams in football, O'Dea insists that he will not be running scared when the two countries meet.

"I relish it, I don't fear it at all. Everyone does - that's why you play football," said O'Dea.

"You want to play against the best, you want to be in the Champions League, you want to play in the Premier League.

"Every player wants to do it because that is the best level, and this is the best it gets at international level, playing against Germany, so we will look forward to it."

O'Dea didn't play a minute of his country's Euro 2012 campaign despite being selected in the squad.