Italy Coach Cesare Prandelli has reassured Mario Balotelli, Antonio Cassano and Fabio Borini on their Euro 2012 chances.
Italy Coach Cesare Prandelli has reassured Mario Balotelli, Antonio Cassano and Fabio Borini on their Euro 2012 chances.
Balotelli risked being frozen out after the red card against Arsenal, but his public apology impressed.
“Have I made peace with Balotelli? Yes, although to be honest we never argued in the first place,” Prandelli told RAI television.
“I was pleased that he took responsibility with his statements after the latest incident at Manchester City. I like those who stand up and accept responsibility for their actions.
“I never really thought of doing without Balotelli, as he is a firm point in this Nazionale.”
Cassano risked missing out for different reasons, as he has played only a handful of minutes since undergoing heart surgery in late October.
“We can recover him and his enthusiasm is contagious. I need Cassano,” added Prandelli.
“Francesco Totti and Alessandro Del Piero? If I should find myself in an emergency situation with the team, I would call on the old champions. However, I have a project for Italy and it involves young players.
“We will evaluate some new faces ahead of the Euros. I called up Borini last time, so the youngsters can absolutely dream of a place in the tournament.”