Tardelli: Trap not keen on Turkish job

MARCO Tardelli has ruled Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni out of contention for the vacant Turkey job.

Citing Turkish sports newspaper Fanatik, French magazine L’Equipe reported over the weekend that the Turkish FA were keen on signing up the 70-year-old.

The post opened up when Fatih Terim resigned after he could only deliver third place behind Spain and Bosnia and Herzegovina in Turkey’s World Cup qualifying group, but Irish assistant Tardelli quickly quashed the rumour.

Speaking to Radio Uno, he said: “I have spoken with Trapattoni and there is no truth in the stories.

“There have also been voices linking him with the Nigeria job ahead of next summer’s World Cup, but again there is no truth to these rumours.

“I can confirm we are doing just fine here in Ireland.”

Trapattoni recently signed a new contract with the Football Association of Ireland until 2012 after leading the Boys in Green to a play-off.