|
It is the start of a six-month countdown towards the opening game of the Republic's latest bid to qualify for the European Championships.
"I know (Wales manager) John Toshack is making a point of being in transition, but ours is arguably bigger," Staunton told PA Sport.
The tournament has proved a heartbreaker for Ireland as they have qualified just once, and that was back in 1988 when Staunton was just embarking on his professional playing career.
There have been four failures since, albeit tempered by the fact the Republic qualified for the World Cup finals in 1990, 1994 and 2002.
Appreciably, after winning a record 102 caps for Ireland, Staunton is acutely aware of the demands of 'the green army'.
Yet after taking over from Brian Kerr, and after several retirements that came with Ireland falling short in their efforts to reach this summer's World Cup, the Republic is a squad in transition.
Gone are the experienced older heads in Roy Keane, Kenny Cunningham, and Matt Holland, and in have come six players without a cap to their name to face the Swedes.
It is why Staunton is hoping the supporters give him time, and do not place too many demands on him, with the 2010 World Cup in South Africa a more realistic aim than the 2008 Euros in Switzerland and Austria.
"Up until 1988 we had never achieved or qualified for anything, and then all of a sudden it exploded and it was fantastic," Staunton said. "We had the era of Jack Charlton, followed by Mick McCarthy, and they were exciting times.
"Okay, there were disappointments, but the expectations were high. Now it is a time to be realistic because if you look at the average age of the squad, it is young. There is experience, but there is also young talent coming through, but that is all it is at the moment - young talent.
What we have to do is get the best out of them over the next couple of years, so by the third year we are looking at a more experienced, stable squad. These players have to be nurtured and developed through the system, which is why patience from the fans is so important.
"Beyond the current crop there are other players coming through, and whether I am lucky enough to see them emerge in the next four to six years remains to be seen. I hope I'm here to build."
In a group that contains Germany, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, Staunton knows he will have his work cut out to qualify. However, he will leave no stone unturned in his efforts to end the long wait to again dine at Europe's top table.
"It was a difficult draw," insisted Staunton. "Maybe not in terms of travelling because for the supporters and players it was a great draw. But make no bones about it, it's a very hard group, one in which I think the top four will battle it out.
"That's not underestimating the Welsh or the Cypriots because they will also be difficult ties. But I've said from day one we will do our damnedest in every game in qualifying. People have to realise, though, there are going to be changes, so hopefully by the time the next World Cup comes around we will be in a stronger position.
For now, after the fanfare surrounding his arrival and anticipation of his maiden squad, Staunton is anxious to get the first game under his belt.
"The last few weeks have been hectic and exciting, and now I can't wait for the football to start," beamed Staunton. First and foremost, I'm looking forward to meeting the players, and then getting on the training ground with them.
"I've spoken to them all, and I know everybody is enthusiastic and looking forward to coming in. I want that to be the same for every game we play, and long may it continue."