England manager Roy Hodgson has insisted that Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni deserves to be recognised as an outstanding coach of the modern era.
Trapattoni's position as Ireland boss remains under considerable threat as the hangover from last summer's disappointing performance at Euro 2012 shows no sign of letting up.
Hodgson believes that the Italian veteran deserves the chance to use his considerable experience to put things right as the Irish bid to salvage their World Cup qualifying campaign.
The Three Lions coach told The Guardian: "He's a friend of mine, he has been a friend for many years since I went to Italy all those years ago.
"He's one of the world's outstanding coaches. If you ever want to talk about legends in coaching terms then Giovanni Trapattoni's name will be up there.
"You show me a national team coach that's not getting stick somewhere."
Hodgson and Trapattoni will meet tomorrow night as England face Ireland in a prestigious international friendly at Wembley.
