Cesare Prandelli admits he could drop Mario Balotelli for breaking the code of ethics. “I don’t want players who do reaction fouls and get sent off.”
Tomorrow the Coach will name his squad for Italy’s friendly match with USA on Wednesday evening.
Cesare Prandelli admits he could drop Mario Balotelli for breaking the code of ethics. “I don’t want players who do reaction fouls and get sent off.”
Tomorrow the Coach will name his squad for Italy’s friendly match with USA on Wednesday evening.
“I don’t think there will be many huge changes, as we cannot in the space of two days undermine those players who got us to Euro 2012,” Prandelli told Sky Sport Italia.
There were reports Roma striker Borini would get a call-up, but he is instead included in the Azzurrini squad to face France on Tuesday.
“I hope to introduce some novelties in May. We are tracking Borini, along with many others, but it’s only right that he continues to gain experience with Ciro Ferrara and the Under-21 side.”
Stephan El Shaarawy was not included in the Under-21 squad, so could possibly earn a promotion to the senior team.
There are also question marks over Balotelli, who has just returned from a four-match ban for kicking Tottenham’s Scott Parker in the head – although the player and Manchester City insisted he had not done it on purpose.
Daniele De Rossi was dropped from one match for breaking the code of ethics and therefore Balotelli could come in for the same treatment.
“Will Balotelli be left out? We’ll see. He seems a little agitated to me. When I say we have to reach the European Championships prepared, I mean I don’t want to see players who at the first sign of difficulty do reaction fouls and get sent off, leaving their teammates to struggle with 10 men.
“We have a few months to make our considerations.”
Italy are in a group with Spain, Croatia and the Republic of Ireland.
“At this moment we have to start off with the desire to win. Our players are all convinced they can be protagonists and this is a good start. We must have humility, respect for our opponents and prepare for the games well.”