Shane Long admits he needs to "step up"

Republic of Ireland striker Shane Long feels that he needs to "step up" for his country in their World Cup qualifying games.

Giovanni Trapattoni's side couldn't find the net in their goalless draw with Sweden in Stockholm on Friday.

Long told the Daily Star: "I do feel now it's time I stepped up. The thing is, we have great competition for strikers in the squad.

"I got the nod against Sweden and it's up to me now to keep that starting position and that's what I intend to do."

Republic of Ireland are fourth in Group C after playing four games so far in their qualifying campaign.