Badminton: Scott Evans ready for Lin Dan

Ireland's Scott Evans claims nothing can ruin his big moment as he prepares to face Olympic champion Lin Dan.

Evans is being given little hope of success at London 2012 after being drawn against the man many believe to be the greatest player of all time.

The world number 76 faces the great Chinese, who is tournament favourite despite being seeded second, in what is effectively a knockout contest on Monday afternoon.

The first round of the men's singles is round robin but Evans and Lin are the only players in Group P.

Dubliner Evans, 24, said: "I'll prepare like I do for any other game, making sure that I'm mentally ready, go out, enjoy myself and embrace it - even if I break my leg on court, I'll enjoy it.

"I'll change tactics because of who he is, being a left-handed player - but I'll play my own game.

"I've played Lin Dan a few times before so I know what he can do.

"When you go into the Olympics there are no easy games.

"If I want to win a medal then I'll have to beat Lin Dan whether now or in the final. It would have to happen.

"I'm tired of people being negative about it. You have to be positive."

Evans has played Lin three times previously, including at last year's World Championship at the same Wembley Arena venue, but lost on each occasion.

Ireland's women's singles entrant, world number 44 Chloe Magee, will play at least two matches in her group.

Magee, of Raphoe, County Donegal, opens against Hadia Hosny of Egypt on Sunday before playing former world number two Pi Hongyan of France next Tuesday.

Magee said: "I have to be happy with the draw, it's about the best I could have expected.

I've never beaten Pi before but I'm feeling in good shape so I've got a good chance.

"I played her once before and she beat me in three sets last year. The Egyptian is going to be a tough one but if I can remain focused it will be a good match for me."

PA