Republic of Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni has backed Rafa Benitez for the Napoli job.

The departing Chelsea manager is being linked with Napoli following Walter Mazzarri's decision to leave.

"Benitez has won a great deal and can be an excellent choice, as he has the experience and the ability," said Trapattoni.

"Would I do it? I did have contact with Napoli in the past, but I wanted to win elsewhere. Nowadays they'd consider me old hat! I'd definitely come to Napoli, but they are targeting a different Coach."