Trapattoni happy he’s still in charge

Giovanni Trapattoni says he is “happy and grateful” to still be manager of Ireland, maintains he has “a good relationship” with FAI boss John Delaney and insists that, in being seen to act on the association’s suggestion that he attend more games in England, his authority as manager is not being undermined.

The night after Ireland’s 4-1 victory over the Faroe Islands, an FAI Board of Management meeting in Dublin gave their backing to Trapattoni, ending days of feverish speculation about his position in the wake of the embarrassing 1-6 defeat to Germany at the Aviva Stadium.

Speaking about that tumultuous week at his squad announcement for the upcoming friendly against Greece, Trapattoni yesterday revealed his reaction to the news – which came in a telephone call from John Delaney immediately after the board meeting – that he had retained his position as Ireland manager.