Ward backs Trap to lead Ireland to Brazil

STEPHEN WARD has backed Giovanni Trapattoni to guide the Republic of Ireland to the 2014 World Cup.

Trapattoni agreed a two-year contract extension yesterday and the Wolves defender believes the Italian can follow up on qualification for Euro 2012 by leading the Boys in Green to Brazil.

Ward, pictured, said reaching Euro 2012 has given the country “a massive lift’’ and Trapattoni has done a “fantastic’’ job since taking charge in 2008.