Giampiero Ventura insists Simone Zaza is “important” for Italy, to the extent that the Azzurri “will try” to help the striker regain his form.
Zaza was heavily criticised for his awkward penalty that ultimately knocked Italy out of Euro 2016 and has yet to score in the Premier League for West Ham United this season, but Ventura is backing the attacker to impress against Germany and Liechtenstein over the next fortnight.
“Liechtenstein? It’s a match to win,” the Coach said at a Press conference.
Giampiero Ventura insists Simone Zaza is “important” for Italy, to the extent that the Azzurri “will try” to help the striker regain his form.
Zaza was heavily criticised for his awkward penalty that ultimately knocked Italy out of Euro 2016 and has yet to score in the Premier League for West Ham United this season, but Ventura is backing the attacker to impress against Germany and Liechtenstein over the next fortnight.
“Liechtenstein? It’s a match to win,” the Coach said at a Press conference.
“I saw their game against Spain and until 65 minutes, they were only 1-0 down, so it’s a match that we must prepare for carefully.
“Germany could be an opportunity for us to raise our confidence levels, but it’s not the best team to try out the youngsters.
“I would’ve preferred a different type of friendly match for our young lads to express themselves in. Germany almost pose a degree examination, in which we have to give a thesis.
“Verratti? He’s 22 years old. I repeat: he’s important to the national team, but he can’t suddenly grab hold of the national team.
“He should be given time. If the international break lasted 40 days then things would be different. Him and De Rossi are two who can play together.
“Izzo? If we played three at the back, I’d have a problem because only Rugani would be left, but he’s not played for several games.
“Zaza’s important to the national team and should be given the opportunity to prove he’s still the player he was.
“At the moment, he’s not the Zaza that won the Scudetto with Juventus, but it’s up to him to return to those levels. We’ll try to help him get there.
“Belotti and Immobile? They’re on the right path with the national team, but it’s not just them. Still, they can become an important partnership.
“Astori? I was surprised by his reliability and quality. That he can play in four or three at the back is useful, I fully rely on him.”