While the Irish are missing John O’Shea, Jon Walters and possibly Shane Long, Bosnia and Herzegovina are only missing the suspended Muhamed Besic.

“I think it’s 50-50,” Dzeko said of Ireland’s absences. “It doesn’t matter.”

“I do know almost all players. They all play in the Premier League, which we know is the best in the world. What makes them very special is they are coherent, never give up, always fight to give more. Everybody wants to win...They are all good players, you are a good team."

“Maybe some of the most important players are not playing. You have another good players who can step in, experienced players who can bring something different to the team, like you did against Germany. If you win [against the world champions], you must be a good team.

“I don’t know where having more Champions League players would be an advantage or not. I am used to playing Premier League. We really have to focus on our game.

Dzeko does hope that the venue of Friday’s play-off, in Zenica, can give Bosnia an advantage. It has been chosen over the capital Sarajevo for home games because of the atmosphere, and the side’s fine record.

“This is somewhere special for us. It gives us more power, we love this place, we have a good record here. Hopefully we can do same tomorrow. We all know why we’re here, and I think we’re ready.”

Manager Mehmed Bazdarevic meanwhile (pictured above) said that his side “respect Ireland’s expertise” but do not fear them.