Trapattoni 'totally committed' to Ireland

Giovanni Trapattoni has dismissed reports he will be appointed as Turkey’s new coach later this week.

Claims circulating for several days have suggested the 70-year-old Italian will be unveiled on Friday.

However, the man who guided Ireland to within touching distance of this summer’s World Cup finals in South Africa before a controversial play-off defeat by France, has reaffirmed his commitment to the Republic.

Trapattoni said: “It’s rubbish, there is nothing in it. It is just agents talking.

“I am totally committed to Ireland.”

Trapattoni took over as Ireland boss in May 2008 and signed a new two-year contract in September last year after a hugely encouraging start to his reign.

Under his leadership, the Irish finished second in World Cup qualifying Group Eight behind reigning champions Italy and took France to extra-time in the second leg of the play-off clash in Paris before William Gallas’ goal, courtesy of a handball by Thierry Henry which was not spotted by Swedish referee Martin Hansson, put the home side through.