Italy team doctor Enrico Castellacci is optimistic for Stephan El Shaarawy’s return to fitness, but casts doubt on Giorgio Chiellini.

Italy team doctor Enrico Castellacci is optimistic for Stephan El Shaarawy’s return to fitness, but casts doubt on Giorgio Chiellini.

The duo skipped the Azzurri’s debut under Antonio Conte against the Netherlands last night, as a precautionary measure for respective issues picked up in training.

For the team’s chief medic, it is still mixed news on whether both can return in time for next week’s match in Oslo against Norway – the start of Euro 2016 qualifying.

“El Shaarawy has had a minor ankle sprain, nothing serious – in recent days he had an worsening of pain so as a precaution we rested him,” Castellacci has explained to reporters today.

“Yesterday evening after the game he has moved quite well, today he will work differently and if he responds well, he could be included back with the group.”

On Chiellini, Castellacci is more cautious.

“He has a minor swelling of the calf, he has had two days off and is a bit better. In the afternoon there will be an MRI – the damage is very minor, but it is in a delicate place.

“After the tests today with the Coach and the player we will decide on what to do.

“Three days ago I told you that there was minimal damage and it was not a major concern – given the delicate position and previous instances, we must be careful and consider thoroughly what to do.

“Each athlete must be evaluated for their past.”

Castellacci also updated on Daniele De Rossi, Ciro Immobile and Claudio Marchisio, before commenting on the general fitness of the group in their first few days under Antonio Conte.

“Sometimes there is muscle overload, the only concern is for De Rossi, who suffered a knock and has a bruise on the side of the left knee.

“During the game it was felt less, but when cooler he has felt it more. It is not a situation that worries us at the moment.

“Today is a day of light recovery training, and he will take part without any problems.

“Immobile has problems that are so small, that for a player they are a part of everyday life.

“Marchisio has returned home because he is suspended – even though he had a fever, it would not have prevented him playing.

“The condition of the squad in general is good, except in the case of those who are injured. There have been three days of training, six workouts.

“Conte works very hard both at a physical and tactical level, but there has been great balance between the two. Currently everything is going well.”

Byrob

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