*AA* Trapattoni: I'm committed to Ireland

Trapattoni: I'm committed to Ireland
(PA) Tuesday 12 January 2010
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Republic of Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni has dismissed reports that he will be appointed as Turkey's new coach later this week.

Claims circulating for several days have suggested the 70-year-old Italian will be unveiled on Friday. However, the man who guided the Irish to within touching distance of this summer's FIFA World Cup™ finals in South Africa before a play-off defeat by France, has reaffirmed his commitment to the Republic.

Trapattoni said: "It's rubbish, there is nothing in it. It is just agents talking. I am totally committed to Ireland."

Trapattoni took over as Ireland boss in May 2008 and signed a new two-year contract in September last year after a hugely encouraging start to his reign.

Under his leadership, the Irish finished second in FIFA World Cup qualifying Group 8 behind reigning champions Italy and took France to extra-time in the second leg of the play-off clash in Paris.