GIOVANNNI TRAPATTONI has “laughed off” suggestions he may become the next Celtic manager, according to the FAI, after the Italian was yesterday reported to be on the shortlist to succeed Tony Mowbray at Parkhead.

The prospect of the 71-year-old succeeding Mowbray, who was sacked by the club on Thursday, was described as “absolutely magnificent” by former Hoops striker Frank McAvennie, but the Italian has privately dismissed the idea.

Speaking yesterday, an FAI spokesman said the Italian was informed of the reports but was quick to rule out a move to Glasgow.

The chances of Trapattoni leaving the Irish set-up always appeared slim, given he had already turned down Juventus and opportunities to manage Nigeria or the Ivory Coast at the World Cup in favour of embarking on another campaign with Ireland.