Kilbane backs Trapattoni

Soccer Shorts: Kevin Kilbane has backed new manager Giovanni Trapattoni to lead the Republic of Ireland to the 2010 World Cup.

Former Italy boss Trapattoni was appointed last week after a protracted search for Steve Staunton's successor.

Ireland have not qualified for a major tournament since the 2002 World Cup but Kilbane believes the vastly-experienced Trapattoni (68) is the man to put that right.

Wigan midfielder Kilbane, who has 87 international caps, said: "It is a big name and one we are all going to be looking forward to working under.

"He is going to bring in different ideas and methods and I am sure every player that is going to be taking part is looking forward to it." Kilbane (31) has no intention of following the likes of Liverpool's Steve Finnan who, at the same age, recently announced his international retirement.

The former Preston, West Brom and Sunderland midfielder sees exciting times ahead and he hopes to help carry the Republic into a bright new era. Kilbane added: "Over the last few years, we have had a lot of new players come in and taste international football and now I am sure they will be looking to take their opportunity over the coming years."

Carroll agrees Derby deal

Roy Carroll has agreed a three-year deal in principle with Derby after impressing manager Paul Jewell during his three weeks with the Rams. Carroll initially signed a short-term contract with the Premier League's bottom club at the end of last month after leaving Rangers.

Although Derby are destined for an immediate return to the English Championship, Northern Ireland international Carroll has had no hesitation in deciding to extend his stay beyond this season. "We've agreed a three-year deal in principle with Roy, so that is something really pleasing for us and him," confirmed Jewell.

Bolton go through

Battling Bolton reached the last 16 of the Uefa Cup after holding Atletico Madrid to a goalless draw last night. Leading 1-0 from the first leg at the Reebok Stadium, Wanderers got the draw they needed after producing a perfect defensive display.

Atletico created most of the goalscoring opportunities, but they could find no way through, with Luis Garcia blazing over one of their best chances in the first half.

Ronaldo to leave hospital

AC Milan striker Ronaldo is due to leave hospital today after the three-times World Player of the Year had knee surgery last week in Paris. Ronaldo (31) had an operation on a ruptured left knee tendon after being injured playing for Milan in a 1-1 Serie A draw against Livorno.

He will not be able to do any sport for eight to nine months, doctors said. He should join a rehabilitation centre after leaving hospital.

Milan have yet to commit to a new contract for the player, who was making only his sixth appearance in an injury-plagued season. Ronaldo's deal runs out in June and, with question marks hanging over his career, the European champions are not guaranteeing him a fresh contract despite saying they hope he plays for them again.

Under-17s win again

The Irish Under-17s hammered Finland 6-1 last night in Kilkenny to wrap up their second victory of the week over the same opposition. Greg Cunningham put Ireland ahead on seven minutes before the visitors levelled after 25 minutes. Goals by Robert Brady on 29 minutes and Darragh Satelle after 32 minutes gave the Irish a 3-1 advantage at the break and further strikes in the second half by substitute Conor Hourihane, Paul Murphy and John Sullivan polished off a fine victory.

IRELAND: G Carlin (West Brom), P Ormsby (Crumlin United), J Dunleavy (Wolves), K Keane (Derby County), S Timmins (Birmingham City), C Clifford (Chelsea), R Brady (Manchester United), G Cunningham (Manchester City), P Murphy (Ipswich Town), J Sullivan (Crumlin United), D Satelle (Crumlin United). Subs: C Hourihane (Sunderland) for Brady (46 mins), L-Jay Lynch (Regional Utd) and G Holohan for Clifford and Murphy (both 52 Mins), S Howard (Crumlin United) for G Cunningham (57 Mins), C Coll (Kilrush Tigers) for Timmons, D Kelly (Carrigaline) for Satelle, W Brutton (Carrigaline) for Ormsby, B Nolan (Waterford Bohemians) for J Sullivan (all 66 Mins).