David Meyler says Republic of Ireland's 'character and heart' will help book World Cup spot

David Meyler insists the Republic of Ireland will qualify for the World Cup because he says they possess more character than play-off rivals Denmark.

The Republic had only 28 per cent possession of a drab first leg in Copenhagen on Saturday but frustrated a Denmark side featuring Tottenham playmaker Christian Eriksen.

Meyler was suspended for that 0-0 draw but will return for the second leg in Dublin on Tuesday when he expects the hosts to finish the job.

“I only see one outcome, I think Ireland are going to the World Cup,” said the Hull midfielder. “I don’t think anyone will stand in our way. Denmark are very good but they don’t have the character and the heart and desire that we have.”

O’Neill guided the Republic to Euro 2016 and Meyler explained what the manager brings to the role.

“He is tactically alert, a very educated man,” said Meyler. “I could probably tell you everything about the Denmark team because we have studied them.

“That starts with the boss. He knows everything about them, it feeds through into the players. He is a great man motivator, he gets people going. Whether it might be that five yards, that extra pass, that extra tackle, he gets it out of people.”