GREAT ITALIANS

Italian football has had some great players over the years, but it looks like most of the players who were part of the 2006 World Cup may not be playing with Italy anymore.

The likes of Alessandro del Piero and Francesco Totti have given a lot to the national team over the years, but their participation at the 2014 World Cup has been a major doubt. Italy manager Cesare Prandelli has said that he does not rule out recalling some of the former names. Totti may be coming to the end of his career, but he is still playing an influential role in the Roma team.

Doubts persist about the recall of del Piero because the former Juventus striker is currently playing in the Australian A-League. Cesare Prandelli has also not ruled out Antonio Cassano, who has not been selected for national team duty in recent times. Cassano was an important part of the team at the Euro 2012, but he missed the Confederations cup. Del Piero is close to retiring from football and the talk about his selection seems to be merely press talk. Italy are one of the favourites to win the 2014 World Cup after doing well in recent major tournaments.

“Everyone must think they can make the World Cup. Between late March and April we will try to understand those who have the best condition. Totti, Di Natale and we also add Del Piero to the conversation. You have to go with the best players. We must also follow Antonio Cassano who had an extraordinary European Championships, if he has a strong season with Parma and finds a good condition, it will definitely get him into serious consideration,” said the manager, who has worked extremely hard in order to bring down the age of the team.