Hand gives FAI call the thumbs down

One man left unhappy by the news that Giovanni Trapattoni is to remain as Republic of Ireland boss was Eoin Hand, who suggested prior to last night’s show of support from the FAI that now was the time for the Italian to be left go.

Yet now the decision has been made, the only way former manager Hand thinks the decision can be changed is if the 73-year-old shows the required level of commitment to warrant his huge salary and turn negative public opinion around – starting with next month’s friendly at home to Greece.

“The decision is nearly expected in a way,” Hand said. “He’s a professional and he has played them by saying all the right things.