Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni admits he came close to joining AS Roma last year.

Trapattoni revealed "Roma wanted me as their Coach 18 months ago," when Luis Enrique was still on the bench.

"Around 18 months ago I was contacted by Roma and they wanted me as their Coach," 73-year-old Trap told Radio Manà Manà Sport.

"It wasn't the first time I had been close to the Giallorossi, but the negotiations did not end with a positive outcome.

"In all honesty, it disappointed me a little, because Roma are a great club with passionate fans."