Giovanni Trapattoni: 'Roma wanted me as coach'

Republic of Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni has revealed that Roma asked him to become their coach 18 months ago.

The 73-year-old claims that it was not the first time that he had been in negotiations with the Italian club.

"Around 18 months ago I was contacted by Roma and they wanted me as their coach," he told Radio Mana Mana Sport.

"It wasn't the first time I had been close to the Giallorossi, but the negotiations did not end with a positive outcome.

"In all honesty, it disappointed me a little because Roma are a great club with passionate fans."

Trapattoni is under contract with the Football Association of Ireland until June 2014.