Giacomo Bonaventura is tipped to start for Italy in tomorrow’s EURO 2024 qualifier against Malta, with Giacomo Raspadori, Moise Kean and Domenico Berardi upfront.
It kicks off at the Stadio San Nicola on Friday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
The Azzurri go into this game without injured Ciro Immobile, Mateo Retegui, Lorenzo Pellegrini, Federico Chiesa, Mattia Zaccagni and Ivan Provedel, while Sandro Tonali and Nicolò Zaniolo were sent home after they were placed under formal investigation for illegal betting.
In his press conference today, coach Luciano Spalletti hinted that Bonaventura could well start this match, making his first Italy appearance since the 6-0 friendly win over Moldova on October 7, 2020.
It would be the Fiorentina midfielder’s first competitive Italy cap since the 1-0 Nations League defeat to Portugal in September 2018.
He has been impressive this season for the Viola, netting four goals and providing two assists in eight Serie A games.
This would presumably keep Bryan Cristante of Roma rested ahead of Tuesday’s trip to England.
In attack, Raspadori and Kean could well exchange places in the trident, leaving Domenico Berardi in his usual role on the right.
Malta are missing suspended captain Steve Borg, while Teddy Teuma and Jodi Jones have pulled out due to injury.
Jean Borg, who is no relation to Steve, could step in to replace his namesake.
Probable line-ups
Italy (4-3-3): Donnarumma; Darmian, Mancini, Bastoni, Dimarco; Barella, Locatelli, Bonaventura; Berardi, Raspadori, Kean
Malta (3-4-2-1): Bonello; J Borg, Muscat, Pepe; Mbong, Kristensen, Guillaumier, Camenzuli; Yankam, Degabriele; Nwoko
Ref: Stukan (CRO)