ROBBIE Brady insists that the future is bright for the Republic of Ireland despite Sunday's Euro 2016 loss to France.
The defeat in Lyon brought the curtain down on a tournament that also included a draw against Sweden, victory over Italy and a 3-0 reverse versus Belgium in Bordeaux.
The Republic begin the qualification campaign for the 2018 World Cup with a visit to Belgrade to take on Serbia on September 5 and Brady is confident the Boys in Green will make the finals in Russia.
"100 per cent," he said after Sunday's 2-1 loss to France in Lyon.
"I think we will take some positives from this. We can see that we have some quality players.
"You hear things about the future not being so bright, but we showed that we have got a bit about us.
"We accept nothing more than getting out of our World Cup group and representing the country on the big stage again, and letting so many thousands of Irish fans come and show what they are about.
"It's an excellent opportunity for everyone."
Brady became the Republic of Ireland's leading scorer in European Championship finals after he followed his header against Italy with an ice-cool first minute penalty after Shane Long had been brought down in the France box.
"It was definitely in my dreams," he said.
"Longy's bit of clever play today managed to get me a second goal which was just fantastic. It got us off to a good start.
"For me personally to get a couple of goals, I'll always be able to look back on them. Not just the goals, there are different moments like at the end, standing in front of the fans, it's something you'll never forget. Thanks to them for giving us that memory. We'll never forget it."
Brady has a lot to be proud of when he looks back on his performances over four games at Euro 2012. He played left-back, left midfield and centre midfield and as well as the two goals he was a constant menace from set-pieces, passed the ball accurately and tackled and ran with real purpose – he shaded Jeff Hendrick as the Republic's player of the tournament.
"It's very disappointing," he said.
"I'm sad to see it finish to be honest.
"We gave ourselves a great chance early on and maybe tiredness showed, not only in legs but with a couple of decisions in the second-half that cost us. I can't fault anyone. There is no blame to be shed on one person.
"It was a team effort and we were all tired - we all felt it in the second-half. But it is such a proud day, a proud tournament, to be involved in.
"Every one of the lads gave a great account of themselves throughout the tournament. We are really sad to finish now but there are definitely positives to take from it."
