Perrotta doubt for Czech clash Sunday 18 June, 2006
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With Daniele De Rossi suspended, Simone Perrotta is also a major doubt for the Group E decider against the Czech Republic.
The former Chievo midfielder could barely run in the final 20 minutes of last night’s 1-1 draw with the USA, as he had taken a knock to the upper thigh and Italy had already completed their substitutions.
“Perrotta suffered a heavy bruise to his right thigh which also affected the sciatic nerve,” explained chief medic Enrico Castellacci.
“It was quite a rough game overall and we had quite a few problems. Perrotta could still recover for Thursday, but we need 48 hours to see how the bruise is absorbed. Alberto Gilardino also had a slight sprain to his right ankle.”
De Rossi will be suspended for that tie, which could see Italy top Group E, go through second or even be eliminated depending on the result here and in the Ghana-USA game, following his dismissal for elbowing Brian McBride.
A draw would be enough to see the Azzurri through to the knockout stage, but the Czechs also have problems to contend with. Tomas Ujfalusi was sent off in the 2-0 defeat to Ghana and he’ll be suspended, along with striker Vratislav Lokvenc. Injured forwards Milan Baros and Jan Koller are also unlikely to feature.
“The Ghana defeat was just a bad day at the office,” insisted Fiorentina defender Ujfalusi. “We have to beat Italy in order to qualify and we can do it. I’m disappointed with my red card, especially as it means I won’t be able to play against the Azzurri.”