Cesare Prandelli hinted he could call Francesco Totti for the World Cup, but Antonio Cassano is less likely to be considered.
The Italy Coach spoke to Sport Mediaset ahead of Friday’s draw for the 2014 tournament in Brazil.
Cesare Prandelli hinted he could call Francesco Totti for the World Cup, but Antonio Cassano is less likely to be considered.
The Italy Coach spoke to Sport Mediaset ahead of Friday’s draw for the 2014 tournament in Brazil.
“Before his injury, Totti did great things and proved he deserves a call-up. Then he stopped and is now getting ready for his comeback. We’ll see how it goes, as I am keeping Totti under very close observation.
“Cassano? He had a great Euro 2012, but then a new and different Nazionale was born, aiming towards the World Cup.
“I will also evaluate Cassano, that is clear, but I must give the utmost faith in a squad that took us to the World Cup with two rounds to spare.”
Gianluigi Buffon agreed that Roma captain Totti has done enough for an Azzurri recall.
“I am great friends with Francesco. Before the injury he was playing at a stratospheric level and someone like him always makes the difference. Personally, I would take him to the World Cup.”
FIFA announced Italy will be in Pot Four for Friday’s World Cup draw, meaning they could be paired with Brazil, Germany, Argentina, Spain, Colombia, Uruguay or Switzerland.
“We should be clear that the system for working out the draw and parameters for picking top seeds should be changed, as the big national teams must be seeded,” added Prandelli.
“If Italy were to be picked in a relatively easy group, then it would be better. However, we are Italy, the Vice-Champions of Europe and should not fear anyone or anything.
“If we end up in a ‘Group of Death’ then it would be that for all the sides, not just us.”
The searing heat of the Brazilian summer could see ‘time-outs’ introduced to help players get through the 90 minutes.
“We played in the Confederations Cup a few months ago and understood what the players need. It will be extremely hot and if people want entertainment then they must give players the right instruments to do their best.”