Italy Coach Cesare Prandelli admits Giuseppe Rossi and Lorenzo Insigne are “surprising” him, while Francesco Totti could be at the World Cup.
Italy Coach Cesare Prandelli admits Giuseppe Rossi and Lorenzo Insigne are “surprising” him, while Francesco Totti could be at the World Cup.
The Azzurri have qualified for the 2014 tournament in Brazil and there are many players clamouring to be in the squad.
“We have always tracked Rossi and will continue to do so,” Prandelli told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“He is surprising me a great deal with his consistency rather than the goals, seeing as he always knew how to find the net. I am happy for him, as he seems relaxed and motivated.
“Plus on Tuesday I was fortunate enough to sit in the stands for a wonderful Champions League match, Napoli-Borussia Dortmund.
“Insigne was a protagonist of the game. Young players have to respond on the field the way he did, with character and the desire to overcome all the difficulties someone his age can have. In that sense Insigne gave some very, very important responses.”
While Fiorentina star Rossi is recovering from two years out with knee injuries and Insigne scoring a sensational Champions League winner, Prandelli is also keeping an eye on Serie A’s veterans.
“Signing a new contract is an extraordinary signal for Totti, as it means he will continue playing until he’s 40 and probably overcome every record.
“He deserves it, because he is a champion who decided to stay in his city forever. He chose with his heart and I have always liked that sort of approach.
“Totti remains a great player and we are tracking his progress for the Nazionale, as we do all players. We haven’t set a veto on anyone.”