Lippi justifies Cassano snub Tuesday 30 August, 2005
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Marcello Lippi has explained why he’s opted to select Alex Del Piero ahead of Antonio Cassano for Italy’s World Cup qualifiers.
Both have spent time on the bench so far this season, but the Juventus ace has been chosen for the games against Scotland and Belarus.
"I think it is only right that we talk about the players who are here rather than those who are not," said the Azzurri boss.
"Cassano has really played very little in this campaign so far. Del Piero has featured more and has played well.
"I’ve already said that once Cassano has resolved all of his problems, he will return. Perhaps something would have happened by next month…
"I don’t say that because I know what will occur but the transfer window doesn’t close until Wednesday night."
The Roma starlet, linked with a switch to Juventus, is currently in conflict with his club after failing to extend his contract which expires in 2006.
Del Piero has been included in the 22-man squad though even if he didn’t feature in the 1-0 win over Chievo on Sunday.
"I have total faith in Alex and he seems to be in good form right now," continued the 57-year-old.
"If I need him to play in a wide position then it won’t be something new for him. I already used him in such a position during my first year at Juventus."
Lippi has also selected another of his former Bianconeri pupils by recalling Lazio ‘keeper Angelo Peruzzi, given the injury to current Juve No 1 Gigi Buffon.
"Peruzzi has always been at my total disposal," he added. "He is an element who can guarantee this squad technical and human qualities, as well as charisma.
"I’ve coached both Angelo and Gigi Buffon, they are the best the world has seen over the last 15 years.
"Angelo’s age is not a concern. The only thing that matters is that he is a great player."
Italy’s latest qualifier will take place at Hampden Park on Saturday having already beaten Scotland 2-0 in their first group meeting.
"We expect to play a different Scotland side than the one we faced at the San Siro," noted the tactician.
"But the time has arrived for us to go and impose our brand of football in games from now on.
"My side have changed mentality over the last few months as we now have great faith in our ability. I’m convinced that we will do well."
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Marcello Lippi has explained why he’s opted to select Alex Del Piero ahead of Antonio Cassano for Italy’s World Cup qualifiers.
Both have spent time on the bench so far this season, but the Juventus ace has been chosen for the games against Scotland and Belarus.
"I think it is only right that we talk about the players who are here rather than those who are not," said the Azzurri boss.
"Cassano has really played very little in this campaign so far. Del Piero has featured more and has played well.
"I’ve already said that once Cassano has resolved all of his problems, he will return. Perhaps something would have happened by next month…
"I don’t say that because I know what will occur but the transfer window doesn’t close until Wednesday night."
The Roma starlet, linked with a switch to Juventus, is currently in conflict with his club after failing to extend his contract which expires in 2006.
Del Piero has been included in the 22-man squad though even if he didn’t feature in the 1-0 win over Chievo on Sunday.
"I have total faith in Alex and he seems to be in good form right now," continued the 57-year-old.
"If I need him to play in a wide position then it won’t be something new for him. I already used him in such a position during my first year at Juventus."
Lippi has also selected another of his former Bianconeri pupils by recalling Lazio ‘keeper Angelo Peruzzi, given the injury to current Juve No 1 Gigi Buffon.
"Peruzzi has always been at my total disposal," he added. "He is an element who can guarantee this squad technical and human qualities, as well as charisma.
"I’ve coached both Angelo and Gigi Buffon, they are the best the world has seen over the last 15 years.
"Angelo’s age is not a concern. The only thing that matters is that he is a great player."
Italy’s latest qualifier will take place at Hampden Park on Saturday having already beaten Scotland 2-0 in their first group meeting.
"We expect to play a different Scotland side than the one we faced at the San Siro," noted the tactician.
"But the time has arrived for us to go and impose our brand of football in games from now on.
"My side have changed mentality over the last few months as we now have great faith in our ability. I’m convinced that we will do well."
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