Republic of Ireland defender Stephen Ward has welcomed the news that Giovanni Trapattoni has agreed a new deal.
Defender delighted boss is staying on with Republic
Republic of Ireland defender Stephen Ward has welcomed the news that Giovanni Trapattoni has agreed a new deal to stay on as manager until 2014.
Trapattoni has been rewarded for guiding the Republic to next summer's Euro 2012 finals with a new deal until the 2014 World Cup.
Ward, who played in both legs of the play-off win over Estonia to reach Poland and Ukraine, believes Trapattoni is the right man to guide the Irish for the 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign.
Massive lift
"It's good news for us as a squad of players," Ward told
Sky Sports News. "I think he has done a fantastic job since he's taken over the national side.
"Qualifying for the European Championship has been great for him and great for us and I suppose there's no better man to take us on, hopefully, to the World Cup in 2014.
"I think the job he's done has really given the country a massive lift.
"He's experienced as anyone, he knows the game inside out and the way he's taken over and helped us qualify for a major tournament there is definitely no better man to do it again in the World Cup qualifying campaign."
