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The Irish number two insisted that the squad's veterans have another campaign in them amid speculation a host could retire after Monday's game with Italy

Marco Tardelli has urged Ireland's veteran players not to quit in the wake of a disappointing Euro 2012.

The Irish number two insisted that the likes of Damien Duff and Robbie Keane are needed for qualifying for World Cup 2014 after Shay Given hinted he may quit the international scene soon. It has been speculated that several of the senior Boys in Green are contemplating their future and may quit after Monday's final game with Italy.

"I don't know but I hope not because all the players are fit. It is possible for all the players to also play in the next qualification," said Tardelli when quizzed about potential retirees from the current squad.

Giovanni Trapattoni's number two also said that Damien Duff remains an important member of the squad as the Fulham winger prepares to earn his 100th cap against Italy.

He said: "I think Damien Duff is a very good lad and I think he is a very good player. He has been very important for this team, for the qualification, against France and against the other teams.

"I think we need him for the future because he is a very important person for all the players and the younger players," added Tardelli.

Ireland wrap up their Euro 2012 campaign on Monday after two defeats to Croatia and Spain ensured they would be coming home early. Tardelli told reporters in Gydnia that there were no injury worries for the clash with the Azzurri and that he hopes his adopted nation maintain their recent unbeaten run against his compatriots.

He said: "We play Italy many times and we won and we draw. We hope to win or draw again.

"Italy now in this moment is a very strong because they play very, very well against Spain and I think our players need to be proud to beat this Italian team.

"This match is the fourth match that we have played against Italy. It is normal. I am a professional coach. I work for the FAI."

Tardelli also indicated that Trapattoni will pick a familiar side for the Italian encounter and concluded that the team can play without 'any pressure' against Cesare Prandelli's men.

Ireland's final Euro 2012 match kicks off at 19:45 Irish time on Monday in Poznan.