Republic of Ireland defender Sean St Ledger has insisted that his side can still qualify for the 2014 World Cup, but only if they can record three points against the Faroe Islands.

Ireland are currently in joint second in their group, level on points with Sweden and Austria, but St Ledger is hopeful that a big win over the minnows can give his side a boost over their rivals.

The 28-year-old told UEFA.com: "We'll see what happens in the Faroe Islands match. You know what it is like when you are playing a "smaller" country. It is always difficult, a potential banana skin.

"Sweden are much like us - they are very organised and obviously they have got Zlatan Ibrahimovic who can create, but we are confident that we can beat them at home, so second place is there for the taking."

The Leicester City defender has made 33 appearances for his country.