Stephan El Shaarawy wasn’t even on the bench against Malta, but could start tonight’s Italy-Bulgaria qualifier.
It kicks off at the Stadio Barbera in Palermo at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
Coach Antonio Conte is keeping his cards close to his chest and hid training sessions from reporters, so predictions about the line-up are many and varied.
Confirmation of the 4-3-3 system seems increasingly likely with Graziano Pellè retaining his spot, but it’s a mystery who will complete the trident.
Stephan El Shaarawy wasn’t even on the bench against Malta, but could start tonight’s Italy-Bulgaria qualifier.
It kicks off at the Stadio Barbera in Palermo at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
Coach Antonio Conte is keeping his cards close to his chest and hid training sessions from reporters, so predictions about the line-up are many and varied.
Confirmation of the 4-3-3 system seems increasingly likely with Graziano Pellè retaining his spot, but it’s a mystery who will complete the trident.
Last night the favourite seemed to be Sampdoria striker Eder, then this morning papers backed Napoli talent Lorenzo Insigne.
As the hours count down to kick-off, Monaco star El Shaarawy has emerged as a strong contender for the left side of attack, according to Sky Sport Italia.
Antonio Candreva is expected on the right, while there are numerous midfield options including confirmation of Andrea Pirlo with Marco Verratti.
In defence, Alessandro Florenzi has potential at right-back, while Matteo Darmian and Mattia De Sciglio are comfortable on either side.
Italy (probable): Buffon; De Sciglio, Bonucci, Chiellini, Darmian; Verratti, De Rossi, Parolo; Candreva, Pellè, El Shaarawy