The FAI yesterday moved quickly to deny reports that a deadline had been set over the possible return to the International fold of a trio of Republic of Ireland stars.

 

Manager Giovanni Trapattoni met with Steve Finnan, Andy O'Brien and Stephen Ireland upon his appointment in May, but despite the positive nature of those talks he has yet to hear whether any are willing to return to the fold.

 

Reports over the weekend claimed the Italian had delivered an ultimiatum to the trip, demanding an answer either way ahead of the start of the World Cup qualifying campaign in September. However, the FAI insist there is no deadline. "The Republic of Ireland senior International management team wishes to clarify that no such deadline has ever been set, nor will it be" and FAI statement said.

 

Monday 28th July, 2008