Trap silent on Cassano comments

Giovanni Trapattoni sidestepped the headlines yesterday by refusing to be drawn on his response to homophobic remarks made by Italian international Antonio Cassano.

The player has since apologised for saying he hoped there were no homosexuals in the Italian team.

When asked for his view on the issue by an Italian journalist at Ireland’s pre-match press conference yesterday, Trapattoni replied: “It would be interesting for you as a journalist and if I did respond I know exactly what I would say. But I have no interest in expressing myself on what Cassano said or what the media said.

“I only want to talk about football. But if you want to ask me in private, I will tell you.”