Don't fall into trap, Staunton warns FAI

Former Republic of Ireland manager Steve Staunton believes Italian Giovanni Trapattoni would provide quite a contrast if appointed as his successor.

Trapattoni has emerged as the favourite for the national team post vacated by Staunton last October after a poor Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.

The Football Association of Ireland are thought to be nearing a decision with a board meeting called for this evening and a statement promised later on.

Trapattoni, who is currently in charge of Austrian club Salzburg, would bring a wealth of experience having coached Italy, AC Milan, Inter Milan, Fiorentina, Juventus, Bayern Munich and Benfica.

Yet Staunton believes important questions of his credentials would still need to be asked before an appointment could be made.

The ex-Liverpool and Aston Villa defender said: “What’s his knowledge of the Irish players? How well does he know how the Irish players feel and what they’re all about because I think we are a little bit different.”

Reports suggest Trapattoni is one of two candidates to have been shortlisted for the post, with Terry Venables – most recently the England assistant coach - the other.

The new manager will take charge of a team facing a difficult World Cup qualifying group against the likes of Bulgaria, Italy and recent nemesis Cyprus.

Ireland’s 5-2 loss to Cyprus in October 2006 was one of Staunton’s most humiliating results and he struggled to win back favour thereafter.

Yet despite failing to qualify for Euro 2008, Staunton, who took charge in January 2006, still believes he has much to be proud of during his time in control.

“There are no regrets,” he added. “I’m out of a job after losing on of the last 12 games.

“We brought a lot of young players through. We weren’t beaten at home in the campaign so there were a lot of plusses there.

“There were some negative results but a lot more was made of that than the positives.”

The search for Staunton’s successor has been conducted by a three-man panel chaired by caretaker manager and current under-21 boss Don Givens. Former international Ray Houghton and well-travelled coach Don Howe are the other members.

As for Staunton, he is now looking for a way back into the game after enjoying his first taste of full-time management.

He said: “If the right offer had come along I’d have jumped at it. I think I’m more keen now after having a taste of it.

“I enjoyed every minute of it. It’s something I’m very keen to do.”