IRELAND MANAGER GIOVANNI Trapattoni has said he deserves a new contract and believes a new deal is “a formality”.

The statement comes after Trapattoni guided Ireland to qualification for a major tournament for the first time since 2002 at his second attempt.

The veteran Italian manager yesterday told reporters that he had spoken to businessman Dennis O’Brien, and Trapattoni claims O’Brien indicated that he was happy to put forward the cash to help fund the Italian’s stay.

“It’s not about money. I have met Denis O’Brien. He and the other sponsors support us. It’s about appreciating our job.”

Trapattoni revealed that he didn’t want to “put pressure” on the FAI until qualification was achieved, but now the Italian feels justified in asking the organisation to reward him with a new deal.

Trapattoni also expressed hope that his assistant Marco Tardelli would someday succeed him as manager, while emphasising that he still has “enthusiasm” for the job.

The FAI were unavailable for comment when contacted by TheScore.ie.

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