Giovanni Trapattoni expects Fernando Torres to start

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni believes that Spain will start with Chelsea striker Fernando Torres when the two sides go head to head on Thursday.

Ireland are in danger of not qualifying for the quarter-finals of the European Championships following a devastating 3-1 defeat to Croatia on Sunday.

"I think there will a change," said Trapattoni. "I think we will see Torres.

"I am my own man. I make my own decisions. I don't want to throw a young player into a situation where too much pressure is resting on his shoulders."

Ireland are currently at the bottom of Group C, below Spain, Italy and Croatia.