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FAI 'considering the position' of Trapattoni after Austria defeat

The Italian appears to have accepted defeat in his aim of continuing as Ireland boss in 2014.

THE FAI HAVE tonight confirmed that they are considering Giovanni Trapattoni’s position as Ireland manager after the defeats to Sweden and Austria.

Just over an hour after the 1-0 defeat in Vienna, the FAI released a statement, saying:

“The recent results against Sweden and Austria were very disappointing for everyone involved in Irish football, the manager, the players and supporters.

“Our aim of qualification, although mathematically possible, is now highly unlikely even though the team will always do everything within their power to keep that hope alive. The FAI Board of Management will now consider the current position over the coming days.”

Earlier, the Italian had appeared to admit defeat in his quest to continue as Ireland manager beyond the 2014 World Cup when interviewed by RTE.

Asked if it was time for him to part ways with the job he has held for five years, Trapattoni said:

“It’s not my [decision]. Our jobs, the master is the FAI.

“Yesterday I say, if they give me an opportunity to continue with the next group, the next campaign I’m sure this team – because we change many players – can increase [in quality].
“But it will be for another manager maybe.”

Trapattoni put it to his interviewer, Tony O’Donoghue, that his opinion as a reporter is irrelevant and it is the FAI board who will make the decision. Asked if he wanted to continue in the job for the remaining qualification fixtures, the Italian said:

“I don’t know, maybe they’re ready for another manager. I Don’t know. If they want me to continue [while] they decide what to do in this moment. I continue with 100% commitment.”

Tomorrow’s scheduled press conference with Trapattoni has been cancelled amid reports that the association has already lined up a replacement.

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