Tardelli says Trap set to meet Ireland

GIOVANNI TRAPATTONI could meet with Stephen Ireland as early as next week as hopes rise that the country’s most famous absentee footballer is set to end his international exile.

Speaking in Monaghan, where the FAI will host their AGM later today, Ireland assistant manager Marco Tardelli confirmed Trapattoni plans to sit down with the Manchester City man as soon as possible.

“It’s possible it’s next week or it’s possible after the match against Australia (on August 12),” said Tardelli. “I don’t know, but soon.”