Republic of Ireland captain Seamus Coleman believes that Irish fans are getting behind the team again, following their 1-1 draw with Denmark, as he looks ahead to playing "good football" against Gibraltar tomorrow.
Coleman was speaking to the media alongside Ireland manager Mick McCarthy, ahead of tomorrow's match against Gibraltar. The last match against tomorrow's opponents was a game described by Coleman as 'crazy', but he was keen to point to the positive comments that he has had from Ireland fans since Friday's result.
"Walking [around Breffni Park yesterday], the people of Donegal and Tyrone fans were very proud of the team and thanked me in order to thank the lads for the result. They were very happy to see that goal go in and very proud.
"I am not just saying that - probably ten-plus people had those words to say, so it is good to know that the country are behind us. It is great for the players to realise that as well - and when we are out there, we do think of the fans."
Coleman was also eager to praise the coaching staff for the developments in recent months on their playing style; one which came in for significant criticism under McCarthy's predecessor, Martin O'Neill.
"[Playing good football] is what we have tried to do since the manager came in.
"Against Georgia first, the idea was to press hard and win the ball back as high up the pitch as we can, to play from there. At times, we did that very well against Georgia.
"Especially, when we went 1-0 down against Denmark, we played some really good football, so we are capable of it.
"We're playing at home in front of our own fans, so while the result is the most important thing, we want to get the ball down and play good football as well," said Coleman.
Coleman also believes that this style of play gives the team and himself more confidence in the Ireland setup.
"I think it is the best way to play, to try and win the ball back high up against good teams. Against Denmark, we tried to do it.
"There are going to be times where you get picked off with the likes of Eriksen trying to play balls around the corner.
"As a defender, if we are trying to play it out from the back and teams are pressing then it is difficult. So if we can do that by winning the ball back by pressing high and playing from there, then great."
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