Domenico Criscito is both “happy and angry” at news the betting investigation that cost him Euro 2012 has been shelved due to lack of evidence.
Domenico Criscito is both “happy and angry” at news the betting investigation that cost him Euro 2012 has been shelved due to lack of evidence.
The defender had been named in Cesare Prandelli’s squad for the tournament when his room at the Coverciano training ground was subjected to a dawn raid.
He was handed an official notice of investigation by police and questioned about potential sporting fraud in the Genoa–Sampdoria” data-scaytid=”6″>Genoa-Sampdoria match of May 2011.
Today the judges formally shelved the investigation due to lack of evidence, also releasing Dario Dainelli, Omar Milanetto and Rodrigo Palacio.
“I am very happy, as this is a good day for me,” Zenit defender Criscito told Sky Sport Italia.
“At the same time, I remain very angry at losing the chance to go to the Euros, especially as I always maintained my innocence.
“Will I request compensation? No, that’s not even an option. I am trying to take this situation in a calm manner, even if I have been scarred by the experience.”
The FIGC and Prandelli always insisted Criscito was not dropped because of assumed guilt, but rather because he “could not be relaxed” and focused on his football with this investigation in full swing.
“It’s only natural to be tense in these situations, especially straight after the dawn raid, but as a professional I would’ve left those thoughts outside the pitch,” assured the player.
“Why am I not called up to the Nazionale now? I don’t know, but I am very concentrated on Zenit. If I continue to do well in Russia and Europe, then I think the Italy call will come.”