Giovanni Trapattoni has signed an extension to his contract as Republic of Ireland coach. He also announced the provisional squad for the remaining Group 8 World Cup qualifiers.
Beyond 2010 for Trap
The new deal will see 70-year-old go on past the current 2010 World Cup campaign and onto the Euro 2012 campaign.
“I am delighted to continue my job with the FAI,” Trapattoni told the Football Association of Ireland website.
“This squad has huge potential. Our results demonstrate what self belief and structure can achieve and I am really looking forward to continuing the work we have begun.”
Remaining World Cup qualifiers
The Republic can still grab an automatic World Cup spot if they beat Italy on October 10th and Montenegro four days later, but only as long as the Italians also slip up in their final game against Cyprus.
While a play-off place seems more likely, Trapattoni is still looking for a final push from his squad.
“The final two qualifying matches against Italy and Montenegro in Croke Park next month will be pivotal in our efforts to qualify for South Africa. Having performed well against both Italy and Montenegro away from home, we hope that playing in front of a home crowd against these teams will give us an extra advantage. Everything is still to play for as the group stages draw to a close.”
