Trapattoni extends Republic stay

Giovanni Trapattoni has led the Republic to second place in their World Cup qualifying group

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has signed a new two-year contract which will take him through to the end of the Euro 2012 qualifiers.

The Republic lie second in their World Cup qualifying group, with Trapattoni's side having won four and drawn four of their games in the campaign so far.

"I am delighted to continue my job with the FAI," said the 70-year-old.

"This squad has huge potential - our results demonstrate what self belief and structure can achieve."

The Italian, who took over the reins in February, 2008, added: "I am really looking forward to continuing the work we have begun.

Meanwhile, fit-again Steven Reid has been included in a 27-man squad for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Italy and Montenegro at Croke Park on 10 October and 14 October.

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Republic of Ireland squad:

Goalkeepers - Given (Manchester City), Westwood (Coventry City), Murphy (Scunthorpe Utd).

Defenders - O'Shea (Manchester Utd), Foley (Wolves), Dunne (Aston Villa), Kelly (Fulham), Kilbane (Hull City), Nolan (Preston North End), St Ledger (Middlesbrough), McShane (Hull City), O'Dea (Reading).

Midfielders - McGeady (Celtic), Duff (Fulham), Gibson (Manchester Utd), Whelan (Stoke City), Andrews (Blackburn Rovers), Miller (Hibernian), Hunt (Hull City), Keogh (Wolves), Reid (Blackburn Rovers), Lawrence (Stoke City).

Forwards - Folan (Middlesbrough), Doyle (Wolves), Keane (Tottenham Hotspur), Long (Reading), Best (Coventry City).