The FAI have warned Giovanni Trapattoni that he must stop bickering with his players in public.

In the wake of this week's row with Stephen Kelly, the Association has warned Trap that he needs to adapt a more diplomatic approach when deal with his players and try to keep disputes off the back pages.

An FAI spokesman said that "the association would prefer if team matters like the one before the Faroe Islands match were dealt with in private."

Stephen Kelly has been left angry and upset by the Trap's suggestion that he was not fully committed to the Irish cause. In his post-match press conference after the Poland match, the manager claimed that Kelly had said to him that he would go home if he did not play during last year's qualifier against the Faroes.

In response, Kelly released a strongly worded statement, saying that he was "shocked and disgusted with the untrue and unwarranted comments" made by Trapattoni - describing them as an attempt to "defame my commitment and loyalty to Ireland".

The 29-year-old added that: "It saddens me greatly that I should have to defend my good character and reputation in a profession I love, however, I refuse to allow anyone to question my passion for representing Ireland."

Despite the statement, the Reading defender says that he will continue to be "proudly" available to play for Ireland.

©INPHO/Lorraine O'Sullivan