Trapattoni backs a move for Keane

SOCCER NEWSGIOVANNI TRAPATTONI believes a move to Liverpool by his international captain Robbie Keane would be good for the player's career.

Speaking in Waterford yesterday, the Republic of Ireland manager also welcomed his upcoming clashes with returning Italy boss Marcello Lippi, but has had no further contact or news on Stephen Ireland, Steve Finnan and Andy O'Brien's possible return to international football, though he hopes to speak to them on the resumption of the new season.

"For me he is an important player," said Trapattoni of Tottenham striker Keane and the speculation of his move Anfield. "I think Robbie at the moment has matured and, like players in that position, in the forwards, 26 to 28, it is important for him and important for us, I hope it is for him.

"For him it's a big challenge. I don't know what's happening with Liverpool at the moment (but) I would be very happy for him."

Ireland don't meet Italy in the World Cup qualifiers until April Fool's Day and Trapattoni stressed that it's important good results in the early qualifiers are on board before then.

"I wish to play against Italy because I wish to win," said Trapattoni. "The time will be in April 2009 and it's very important to go to Italy with two or three good results. Lippi was the champion coach (at the last World Cup) and, at the moment, he is the best for Italy."

Meanwhile, FAI CEO John Delaney last night strongly refuted suggestions that the FAI will struggle to fund its portion of the redevelopment of Lansdowne Road.

Fine Gael spokeswoman on sport Olivia Mitchell claimed a cost rise on the project of €101 million should not fall on the taxpayer. But Delaney was livid at her remarks following a briefing in May stating the cost had risen to €466 million.

"Let's clear a lot of myths and rubbish that has been written and said in the last couple of weeks," said an irate Delaney. "Olivia Mitchell's claims are wrong, false, inaccurate and untrue. The original budget for Lansdowne Road did not include additional facilities such as the underground car park, the upgraded catering facilities and air conditioning and the big screens. This was agreed afterwards by the FAI and IRFU. The Government were kept informed of that decision throughout as were both sporting bodies.

"We all know that the Government contribution is capped at €191 million and there is no problem with that at all in any manner. The FAI has the finances in place to cover all our capital commitments in relation to the stadium build."