Former Napoli forward Careca has backed Naples-natives Lorenzo Insigne and Ciro Immobile to impress for Italy at the World Cup.
The duo have come to the fore of public attention heading into a final week of training before kicking off against England on Saturday, for their goals netted in last weekend’s practice match with Fluminense.
Former Napoli forward Careca has backed Naples-natives Lorenzo Insigne and Ciro Immobile to impress for Italy at the World Cup.
The duo have come to the fore of public attention heading into a final week of training before kicking off against England on Saturday, for their goals netted in last weekend’s practice match with Fluminense.
For one Brazilian, this summer’s tournament in his home country could prove to be all about the Italian pair.
“I watched the friendly between Italy and Fluminense with particular attention because of Immobile and Insigne and have followed them since their time at Pescara,” Careca has told the Gazzetta dello Sport today.
“Of course, these are tests that leave little time to stand out in, but I am not in the least surprised by what they have both done. The Neapolitans are this: imaginative and clever.
“Immobile I believe would work well with Balotelli. He is good at attacking the space, but also is the first defender when the opponents have the ball.
“He would be perfect to play with Mario, perhaps with a playmaker behind them. Italy have a long tradition of No 10s and Cassano is perfect as the fantasista.
“Insigne, however, is more of an attacking winger. In certain plays he reminds me of Zola, but he is best expressed on the wing in a 4-3-3 formation.
“I am surprised to see Italy play with such an attacking formation. The Azzurri can get to the semi-finals and compete with Argentina, Brazil and Germany.
“With Prandelli, Italy goes to attack, with respect to the past, and I am sure that these two street urchins [Immobile and Insigne] will assert themselves.”