Trap to give green light to Pilkington

Giovanni Trapattoni has hinted that Anthony Pilkington could be called up to the Ireland squad for February’s friendly against Poland in Dublin.

Despite having been capped in the past at U21 level for Ireland, there has been concern that the Blackburn-born winger could yet declare for England’s senior team, but, yesterday, Trapattoni insisted that the player definitely has designs on the green shirt.

“I can say with certainty that he is very interested to play for us,” said the Ireland manager. “He is honoured with the interest and the paperwork is being processed at the moment. Who knows, we might be able to see him in early February.”