CHRIS Gunter is confident that Wales can handle the Republic of Ireland's combative style in their Nations League showdown on Tuesday night.

Wales are likely to be without talisman Gareth Bale in Dublin as the Republic seek revenge for their 4-1 defeat in Cardiff last month.

Ryan Giggs' side were badly exposed by classy visitors Spain on Thursday, but Newport-born Gunter said the hunger of the Wales squad to succeed should not be questioned after that 4-1 friendly loss.

"Over a long period, I don't think a lack of fight or desire can be labelled at this squad," said the 90-times capped Reading defender.

"We have enough credit not to be accused of that.

"We gave away goals early and then Spain kept the ball. It looked worse than it was.

"Ireland will be a little more physical, but we have stood up to them before and we can look back at those experiences knowing we can deal with them."

He added: “It’s a different challenge. We performed well last month in the home game and hopefully it will go a similar way this time.

“We’ll prepare for a tough game but hopefully it goes our way and we can use Spain as a learning experience."

Wales overpowered Ireland in September when Bale was among the scorers in an exhilarating home performance.

And Gunter feels the short turnaround in fixtures will help Wales get their Spanish inquisition out of the system.

"Sometimes in international football you don't get a chance to put it right so quickly," he said.

"But we are in a good position as we have this chance now with another important game.

"In my experience there have been a lot of times where we have been without key players a few times and haven't done too badly.

“We’ve got enough players and a structure in place where we’re not determined by just one player, even as good as Gareth Bale.

David Brooks is set to be recalled after his impressive showing as a second-half substitute against Spain.

Bournemouth's summer signing troubled Luis Enrique's team with his pace and set-up Sam Vokes' last-minute consolation goal with a delicious cross.

"You've got to feel confident in yourself to come on and make a difference," Brooks said.

"I tried to go forward as much as I could and hopefully make an impact."

Wales will definitely be without Ethan Ampadu and Chris Mepham for the game in Dublin, with uncapped duo Gwion Edwards and Kieron Freeman called up to the squad.

Meanwhile, Wales Under-21s are in action at Rodney Parade in Newport on Tuesday night as they finish their Euro 2019 qualifying campaign against Switzerland.