Blackburn Rovers boss Sam Allardyce has attacked Republic of Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni.
Allardyce has, in the Irish press, reopened old wounds with Trapattoni by claiming that the decision to end Steven Reid's career was made by the Eire boss - insisting the player was still keen to play for his country, despite the West Bromwich Albion midfielder's claims to the contrary.
And Allardyce has urged Reid to prove Trapattoni wrong.
"My gripe with Mr Trapattoni was from the point of view of Steven Reid," said Allardyce.
"He still wants to play for Ireland because he's a passionate, quality guy, never mind being a footballer.
"And Steven Reid is playing for West Brom now, still playing Premier League football.
"I hope he continues to do that and I hope Mr Trapattoni is big enough to eat his words and include him back in the squad.
"It wasn't me trying to stop Steven Reid playing for Ireland, it was the exact opposite.
"It was Trapattoni saying Steven Reid was no longer fit enough to play for Ireland. That's how I read it.
"Why did he need to make that statement about someone who's served his country and his football club so well?"
