Spurs target Hughes

The pair got to know each other following their Euro 2004 qualifying group matches and the 64-year-old Italian sees Hughes as one of Europe's most promising young coaches. Hughes will be groomed to take over from Trapattoni when the Italian decides to retire from football and when the Welshman's contract with his country runs out after the finals in Germany. He has made no secret of his desire to manage in the Premiership and was considering offers after Wales failed to qualify for Euro 2004.

Trapattoni is currently facing a stormy ride back home after stalling on Spurs' offer to become their next manager. Although he has shaken hands on the job he faces a grilling from the Italian FA later this month, when they will make it clear they are far from happy about his association with Spurs while he is still their coach. He has also been on the receiving end of a backlash from Italian fans as he prepares for this summer's tournament.

Both Trapattoni and Hughes were guests of Spurs at the club's match with Birmingham on 7 January. The Italian's attendance was originally denied, while Hughes was said to have been at the game to check on Welsh stars Robbie Savage and Simon Davies. Following Pleat's comments, Raddy Antic was linked with the job - but the Celta Vigo boss has since denied this.