Giovanni Trapattoni has said that he did not suffer a stroke during minor surgery in Italy. The Republic of Ireland manager was in hospital to have an operation to clean the carotid artery on December 28.
Reports in the Italian newspaper Libero said the Italian was ill from having a little stroke after his operation. Trapattoni has denied these reports.
A statement on www.fai.ie read
"Giovanni Trapattoni underwent scheduled surgery before the New Year on the carotid artery. The operation went well, and he is recovering in a stable condition at home.Contrary to media speculation, I can confirm that I have not suffered a stroke. I will be in Ireland on January 24 to announce my squad for the Carling Nations Cup match against Wales on February 8."
This is the second time in 6 months that Trapattoni has had a health problem. In August when he was preparing for a match he had to have urgent surgery said to be due to bad food poisoning. At 71 and with failing health how long can Trap keep managing the Irish team.