McCarthy eyes Euro 2020 for Ireland after Swiss draw

Mick McCarthy has his sights set on Euro 2020 after David McGoldrick rescued the Republic of Ireland's unbeaten qualifying record with a late equaliser in Thursday's 1-1 draw against Switzerland.

McCarthy's side were five minutes away from their first defeat of the campaign after Fabian Schar put the Swiss ahead at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

But McGoldrick ensured Ireland made it five games unbeaten when he headed in the late equaliser that kept his team on top of Group D.

"I am delighted. Switzerland are a very good side. They showed that at times. They kept us penned in. I'm happy we kept going," McCarthy said.

"We showed durability and the stoic nature Irish teams have shown during my time as a player and manager. We deserved it in the end." Ireland are three points in front of second-placed Denmark and six ahead of third placed Switzerland, who however have two games in hand.

"I'm thrilled for David McGoldrick. The way we can eke out a result when it looks like it's gone is impressive.

"The noise when the goal went in pleased me more than anything. It was brilliant.

"We are better off now. It's another game down and we've taken points off the best two teams in this group. We've remained unbeaten."