Cesare Prandelli has not closed the door to veterans for Euro 2012. “Francesco Totti and Alessandro Del Piero still have much to give.”
Cesare Prandelli has not closed the door to veterans for Euro 2012. “Francesco Totti and Alessandro Del Piero still have much to give.”
The Italy Coach is on a tour of all Serie A clubs and visited both the Lazio and Roma camps today.
He was asked about the possibility of calling Totti and Del Piero back for the tournament this summer, especially as injury and poor form has vastly reduced the forwards at his disposal.
“When it comes to dealing with Totti and Del Piero, it requires great respect,” replied Prandelli.
“Will they be called up for Euro 2012? It is best not to say things like that, but they have certainly given a great deal to Italian football and I am convinced they have much to give.
“The evaluations I will make when choosing a squad will not only be regarding their birth certificates.”
Totti’s last appearance in an Italy jersey was in the 2006 World Cup Final against France, while Del Piero hasn’t worn the Azzurri shirt since a 2-0 win over Georgia in September 2008.
“As for Antonio Cassano, we are waiting for him. He is recuperating with great enthusiasm and determination from the problem he had to deal with.”
Cassano returned to action briefly for Milan after five months out following a mini-stroke and heart surgery.
When visiting the Roma camp at Trigoria, Prandelli also commented on Coach Luis Enrique.
“He is a very credible figure with a fantastic spirit who has already become a reference point. He has brought a new culture of football and I hope it can continue.”