Republic of Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni does not expect new contract

Trapattoni with England manager Roy Hodgson

Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni has hinted that he will step down as national coach after his contract runs its course next June, Sky Sports reports.

The Italian has had a roller-coaster ride with the Irish team since taking charge in 2008, and refused to label Thiery Henry a cheat in 2010 when the player handed the ball to set up William Gallas to score a last minute goal to deny Ireland of a World Cup spot. Ireland made the cut for Euro 2012 under Trapattoni’s leadership.

After the 2-1 defeat to Sweden, it is highly unlikely that the Irish team will participate in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Trapattoni took it in his stride that he will not be involved in Ireland’s future games.

Trapattoni said: “I don’t expect, after this campaign, to go again in the future. Sure, no.

“Over five years, I think we have achieved a good result. We have changed the team, we have improved the ranking, we have moved on players and discovered many others.

“In France, the first time, you know we deserved to go through; then we achieved qualification; now maybe the third position could be also a good result for us.

“Obviously, I thought until Saturday we could qualify and if we did achieve that result, then after Brazil, sure, I don’t think about continuing.”

Trapattoni stated that he would not submit a resignation, choosing to honour his contract till the end.

He added: “No. I can continue and help the next (manager) because in this short time, maybe this player or another can show the next manager where he can place his trust and how to develop him.”

The 74-year-old has had a glittering career in management, going on to lead teams like AC Milan, Internazionale, Juventus, Florentina, Bayern Munich and also led the Italian team in the 2002 World Cup.