Many pundits believe that Giovanni Trapattoni will send his troops out in Thursday's Group C clash in Gdansk with the sole intention of frustrating the reigning world and European champions in the hope of securing the point which would keep their Euro 2012 hopes alive.

That is not a view shared by Del Bosque, however, who argues that the Irish have several players capable of causing his team problems at the back.

"I am worried about every aspect of our opponents," the former Real Madrid coach said on Wednesday.

"Ireland have more than just one threat.

"They have tall, strong players and are dangerous on the wings. Their attackers also offer a lot."

The last time the two nations met in a major tournament, at the 2002 World Cup, Spain only managed to prevail on penalties and Del Bosque is anticipating another gruelling encounter.

"They are a team that always competes well," he said. "If we look at past meetings, we have never had a clear victory over Ireland.

"We are going to have difficulties in this game as in any other but we hope to be able to combat those difficulties."

Ireland were beaten 3-1 by Croatia in their tournament opener, while Spain drew with Italy 1-1.