Spalletti has faith in Azzurri

Zenit St Petersburg Coach confirms Domenico Criscito is “sad” at missing out on Euro 2012 amid the betting scandal, but has faith in the Italy side.

Zenit St Petersburg Coach confirms Domenico Criscito is “sad” at missing out on Euro 2012 amid the betting scandal, but has faith in the Italy side.

The defender was originally set to be part of the final 23 for Italy, but was dropped after police searched his room and served him with a notice of investigation at the Coverciano training ground.

“I heard from Domenico and the lad is very sad, as he really wanted to take part in the Euros,” Spalletti told TMW.

“The fact this possibility has been taken away from him is sad. We also have to consider the great work Cesare Prandelli is doing and he has to be left to work in peace.

“We mustn’t create too much tension around our Nazionale, who have to be allowed the utmost relaxation going into Euro 2012.”

That will be increasingly difficult after a 3-0 friendly defeat to Russia on Friday evening.

“It was above all a defeat caused by psychological factors. If the players step on to the pitch feeling disturbed, then the easiest things can go wrong.

“I am nonetheless convinced this Nazionale will show all its good progress done during the Prandelli era. I have the utmost faith in this squad.”