Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has agreed a two-year extension to his current contract with the FAI.
Speculation had been rife that a new deal was near completion, but RTÉ Sport understands that the Italian has signed a two-year extension to his current deal, which was due to expire at the end of the current World Cup campaign.
The deal with Trapattoni will again be part funded by Denis O'Brien, who was instrumental in securing the Italian's services 18 months ago.
Welcoming the new contract, John Delaney, Chief Executive of the Football Association of Ireland, said: 'We are very happy to agree a contract extension with Giovanni Trapattoni. The players and everyone on the FAI Board of Management have been tremendously impressed by the professionalism, dedication and commitment of Giovanni Trapattoni and his team.
'We thank Denis O'Brien for his continuing contribution which will guarantee the services of one of the world's most successful managers, through until 2012.'
Trapattoni revealed: 'I am delighted to continue my job with the FAI. This squad has huge potential. Our results demonstrate what self belief and structure can achieve and I am really looking forward to continuing the work we have begun.'
Welcoming the renewed appointment, businessman O'Brien said: 'When the appointment of Giovanni Trapattoni was announced, we said that hiring the right people would enable us to get the right results.
'In Giovanni, the team has grown in stature and confidence and I am very happy to renew my partnership with the FAI, Giovanni Trapattoni and the Irish squad for the coming campaign.'
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