'The fans are an absolute credit to the country and the team' - Andrews

Republic of Ireland midfielder Keith Andrews has paid tribute to the fans who travelled to Poland and Ukraine to cheer on the Boys in Green during Euro 2012, but admits that the team have only pride to play for in Group C.

Giovanni Trapattoni's side were beaten 4-0 by Spain in Gdansk with a double by Fernando Torres and goals from David Silva and Cesc Fabregas sealing Ireland's fate.

Speaking to RTE after the game, Andrews expressed his disappointment with the result but immediately showered praise upon the travelling support.

"We shot ourselves in the foot again by conceding silly goals," said the Dubliner. "Spain are such a quality side and punish mistakes.

"We are playing for pride [against Italy] now and for the fans who have travelled in their thousands to support us.

"[I'm] bitterly disappointed," continued the 31-year-old. "You could hear the fans here, they are an absolute credit to the country and the team."

"Unfortunately we weren't able to give the fans what they deserved," concluded the midfielder.

The Republic of Ireland take on Italy on Monday but the Boys in Green have been eliminated from Euro 2012.