The 22-year-old has been in outstanding form for Manchester City this season, with his steady flow of goals from midfield helping him to be named the Blues' Player of the Year by supporters.

He has been out of the international reckoning since September 2007, with the player claiming it is unlikely he will return to the national team.

However, with the Republic impressing in the qualifiers for next year's World Cup in South Africa, Trapattoni will make a fresh attempt to lure the youngster back into the fray.

Trapattoni said: "We have to know if he wishes to come back or not. I saw two or three City games and I like him, and I will try all possible ways to get him to come back. I want to know what he is thinking and Mark Hughes is not sure. He said it is up to him, but we do not know."

The Italian has claimed in the past that he doubted Ireland would make a comeback, but that will not prevent him issuing a fresh plea for the player's return.