There are different versions of the events leading up to Ciro Immobile missing the Hungary trip, with some claiming Lazio blocked him at the airport and others insisting it was agreed with Italy staff.
The Nations League group stage campaign concludes on Monday evening in Budapest and a victory would allow Italy to top the group, reaching the Final Four.
Immobile missed Friday’s 1-0 win over England at San Siro and coach Roberto Mancini had been confident of a recovery in time for the second match.
Eyebrows were raised at the Malpensa Airport in Milan when Immobile travelled with the squad and got as far as the tarmac, then looked at his phone and remained in the car.
This prompted rumours of a last-minute intervention from Lazio President Claudio Lotito to prevent his player making the journey.
It is confirmed that Immobile had tests this morning, showing there was still some bruising to the femoral bicep in his right leg.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italy staff thought he was ready to travel and then see tomorrow if he recovered in time to feature.
However, the official statement from the Nazionale insists the tests showed Immobile needed another few days to make a full recovery and it was decided not to risk him.
It has nonetheless sparked controversy, especially after Mancini had already made several comments warning that he would only pick players who really wanted to be on international duty, having lost so many to minor injuries.
Great news
Yes he should stay away from the italy squad every time
As a Lazio supporter and Hungarian, I thank Mancini twice for leaving him out.