Trapattoni keen to extend Irish role

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni wants to stay in his post through to the 2014 World Cup.

A 4-0 win over Estonia in the first leg of their qualifying tie for Euro 2012 has seen the Irish put themselves within touching distance of their first major tournament since the 2002 World Cup.

Trapattoni insisted that they now have a foundation of young players to build towards further successes and that he would like to be a part of it.

“We can repeat our performance in qualification towards the World Cup in Brazil,” he told BBC Sport.

“Now we have a strong, young team. I would be disappointed or upset if I had to leave.”

“When we change these senior players, I am sure we have options who are very, very strong.”

The 72-year-old also praised the work of his squad, admitting that although they are not the most talented outfit, they are a balanced team.

“Our team is a good team. We play good football,” he said.

“Maybe we do not have super-creative players, but we have very, very good players, modern players, quick players and a balance between defenders and attackers.”