Giovanni Trapattoni was in Warsaw today at a pre-Euro 2012 shindig. He was asked about James McClean. Here’s what he said.

Last Thursday, after the 1-1 draw with Czech Republic that marked the debut of the Sunderland winger for the Republic of Ireland, Trap said that McClean was too young and wouldn’t be going be going to the Euros. Fair enough, we weren’t happy but at least it was a decision.

Then last Friday the FAI issued statement “clarifying” Trap’s comments, emphasising that nothing was set in stone for the Euro squad, making us think that maybe the Derry man, as well as other younger players like James McCarthy and Seamus Coleman, could still get a call to go to Poland.

Today, Trap was in Poland for a meeting of the participating coaches and he was, of course, asked about McClean.

"McClean is not important at the moment and he will have lots of opportunities in the future to play many, many games,” Trap said. “We change things slowly but he is a good young player so at this moment I have not made any decision. We have a good squad and the competition for him is tough as we have McGeady, Duff, Hunt and many players for this situation.

"But we are following him because he is young and his mentality is very strong, so I have not decided at this moment if he can participate in the Euros or not."

Okay so there is still a chance, albeit a slim one, for McClean to make it. We think. Trap also confirmed he expects Richard Dunne to be fine for the tournament – thank God says you – and the wily old Italian is even thinking we might win the whole thing.

"Spain, England, Holland and German are usually the four favourites, but then Greece won the tournament so anything is possible and every country and manager has the possibility to dream," added Trapattoni.

We're all dreaming with you, Trap.