Giovanni Trapattoni brushed aside speculation surrounding his future as he prepared for a potentially pivotal game in his reign as Republic of Ireland manager.

Robbie Keane has admitted the Republic of Ireland have had not had a Plan B throughout his entire international career.

Marco Tardelli has insisted Giovanni Trapattoni would happily extend his stay as Republic of Ireland boss if given the opportunity.

Striker Jon Walters sat out of Republic of Ireland training on Sunday ahead of Tuesday night’s World Cup qualifier in Austria.

Robbie Keane has warned the Republic of Ireland any lingering hopes of World Cup qualification will be over if they lose in Austria.

Simon Cox is confident the Republic of Ireland can emerge from their World Cup double-header against Sweden and Austria with their hopes of qualification enhanced.

Giovanni Trapattoni has urged his Republic of Ireland players to believe as they head into a potentially decisive World Cup double-header.

DEFENDER Christoph Metzelder does not feel Germany ever managed to find top gear during Euro 2008 and is hoping for an improved showing in the World Cup in two years’ time.

Germany 0 Spain 1

CROATIA coach Slaven Bilic believes Turkey’s two stunning comeback victories during the group shows both the strengths and the weaknesses of their quarter-final opponents.

WHEN it comes to timing you can be sure the Swiss have covered all the angles. As the countdown clock on the Austria-Switzerland EURO 2008 bid website clicks down to mere hours and minutes, decision day is almost here and the Alpine countries’ campaign seems to have peaked at just the right time.