Tardelli dismisses Trap Turkey rumours

Giovanni Trapattoni’s assistant insists there is “absolutely no truth” to reports that the Republic of Ireland coach is considering taking over the reins of the Turkish national team.

Fatih Terim resigned as Turkey coach after they failed to qualify for the World Cup and speculation in the country has been rife that the federation have offered Trapattoni a big-money contract.

However, his number two Marco Tardelli has rubbished the suggestion.

“I have spoken with Trap but there’s no truth in it,” he told Radio Uno.

“Then there is also the story he’s going to coach Nigeria in the World Cup but there is absolutely no truth to any of these rumours.

“We are happy in Ireland.”

Trapattoni took charge of Ireland in 2008 and narrowly missed out on a World Cup spot after a controversial defeat to France.

The 70-year-old signed a new deal back in September which will take him through to Euro 2012.