Italy boss Lippi dismisses talk of return to Juve

ITALY coach Marcello Lippi yesterday dismissed reports linking him with a return to Juventus.

Italy are currently two points clear of Giovanni Trapattoni’s Republic of Ireland on top of Group 8 and Lippi, who is under contract with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) until after the 2010 World Cup, is adamant he won’t be taking charge at Turin again – either now or after the 2010 World Cup.

Lippi guided Juve to five Scudettos and a UEFA Champions League title during two previous spells at the club but moved yesterday to dismiss speculation he is set to replace Claudio Ranieri as manager.