There are reports Mattia De Sciglio could be ruled out of the World Cup, so Christian Maggio, Manuel Pasqual and others are on alert.
The Milan full-back was expected to start Saturday’s game against England, but pulled up during training today with a right calf problem.
There are reports Mattia De Sciglio could be ruled out of the World Cup, so Christian Maggio, Manuel Pasqual and others are on alert.
The Milan full-back was expected to start Saturday’s game against England, but pulled up during training today with a right calf problem.
He was taken to a local hospital for tests and the initial reports suggest it could be a muscular strain.
The youngster was photographed leaving the hospital, looking downhearted and refusing to speak to journalists.
This would effectively rule De Sciglio out of the tournament in Brazil and Italy have the option of bringing in a replacement until 24 hours before their opening match.
Andrea Ranocchia is already in Brazil with the squad as an alternate in case of injury, but the Inter defender is a centre-back.
With that in mind, it’s rumoured Cesare Prandelli could recall Napoli veteran Maggio or Fiorentina captain Pasqual, who were cut from the provisional squad.
Another alternative is Domenico Criscito, but this would be a huge surprise, as the Zenit man wasn’t even included in Prandelli’s original 30-man list.
De Sciglio was a particularly valuable member of the team, as he can play right-back or left-back, plus in a more advanced role when necessary.