Republic of Ireland midfielder Finn Azaz says that the players "know we've let people down and let ourselves down" with their performance in last month's 2-0 defeat by Armenia.
Fifa World Cup qualifier: Portugal v Republic of Ireland
Venue: Estadio Jose Alvalade, Lisbon Date: Saturday, 11 October Kick-off: 19:45 BST
Coverage: Live text commentary on BBC Sport website
Republic of Ireland midfielder Finn Azaz says the players "know we've let people down and let ourselves down" with their performance in last month's 2-0 defeat by Armenia.
Heimir Hallgrimsson's side were outplayed in Yerevan by a side ranked 45 places below them in the Fifa world rankings.
The defeat, coupled with their last-gasp draw with Hungary last month, leaves the Republic of Ireland's hopes of qualifying for next year's World Cup hanging by a thread.
But Azaz is confident they can bounce back in games against Portugal and Armenia this month.
"We know we've let people down and let ourselves down and now it's a case of looking towards the next two games to put it right," he said.
"There is an anger there to put things right."
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'We need to use the pain of Armenia loss'
Azaz, who started against Armenia, added that the players know the areas they need to address ahead of their game away to group leaders Portugal in Lisbon on Saturday.
"Stopping lapses in concentration in key moments and managing the games. The mistakes at certain times have cost us, so definitely eliminating those and if the concentration is there, we give ourselves a really good chance," he added.
"We need to take responsibility; everything was there for us last month in the training and preparation. We need to make sure it's right for the next two games.
"We had a lot of confidence for the last two games, and it was really disappointing so that's why we're really motivated to put it right. It hurt. We can't dwell on that pain we have to try use it."
When asked if he believes that the Republic of Ireland can still qualify, Azaz said there is "still a great chance".
"I'm motivated to show I can compete with them and that will match the mentality from the other lads," he added.
Azaz made the summer switch from Middlesbrough to Southampton and has started all six of the Saints' Championship games this season.
However, he still believes there is more to come from him as he has failed to play a full 90 minutes for club or country this season.
"I'm disappointed with the start to the season and in terms of minutes, I would like to play more 90s but I'm feeling really good," he explained.
"I had an injury in pre-season, so I missed pre-season and I'm at a stage now where I'm feeling fit and ready."
Category: General Sports
