Source: Team_Talk
Trapattoni committed to Republic
Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has revealed he dismissed a recent proposal to take up a position at Celtic.[LNB] The former Italy and Juventus manager has been linked with an advisory role at Parkhead as Celtic prepare to make an announcement over their managerial vacancy.[LNB]Neil Lennon is the runaway favourite after leading the club to eight consecutive SPL victories following Tony Mowbray's sacking on March 25.[LNB]His lack of managerial experience is seen as the only obstacle to his appointment with the introduction of an experienced director of football mooted as a solution.[LNB]But Trapattoni insists he is committed to leading the Republic to Euro 2012 after their World Cup hopes ended in controversial circumstances against France last year.[LNB]The 71-year-old, who turned down an approach from Juve earlier this year, said: "It was not the Celtic chairman, but someone close to him, close to the club, a former player, who approached me three to four months ago and asked would I be interested in a position.[LNB]"But I say no, I am with Ireland. I also had two or three teams ask me in Italy, and two English teams.[LNB]"I told them all the same answer - that I am with Ireland."[LNB]Reports today claimed Lennon, who has so far been assisted by former Hoops team-mate Johann Mjallby, was reluctant to accept an unfamiliar guide.[LNB]However, the former Celtic captain appeared amenable to the idea on Thursday when he told a meeting of supporters at Parkhead: "If I do get the job, maybe I would like an older head to bounce ideas off. It is a possibility if the outcome is positive."[LNB]Former Leeds manager Howard Wilkinson, who was recently appointed interim chairman of Sheffield Wednesday, and Lennon's former boss Dario Gradi, who is back in charge of Crewe's first-team affairs after twice moving to a director of football role, have also been linked with the position.[LNB]Meanwhile, Celtic are reported to be considering moves for Derby midfielder Paul Green and Stoke's Liam Lawrence.[LNB]The pair's Republic of Ireland team-mate Steven Reid last week joined West Brom on a permanent basis after holding talks with Celtic.[LNB]
