Del Piero sets Donadoni ultimatum
Alessandro Del Piero has warned Roberto Donadoni that he will never again accept a midfield role for Italy.
The support striker was fielded out wide on the left in the disappointing 0-0 draw with France and sent to the stands for the next Euro 2008 qualifier in Ukraine.
“I accepted playing in a different role from my own and I take the responsibility for my performance. But that was definitely the last time,” warned Alex on Sky Italia.
“I spoke to Donadoni about this. It is right that I am used in my position, where I can be decisive, where I have scored goals and where I have done well.”
That was not the first time Del Piero has found himself pushed out wide for the Nazionale and with Francesco Totti now retired from the international scene, he feels it is time he was allowed to take centre stage.
“I really care about the Nazionale. I would like to see out this era and go to the European Championships,” assured the Juventus captain.
“What I am saying is not a threat, it is a statement of fact. As a forward I can do certain things, but I can’t as a midfielder. Players like Antonio Di Natale, who play that role habitually and probably do it better, are there for that.
“Donadoni has the option of using me as a striker, if he thinks it is opportune to do so. If he doesn’t, then he won’t.”
Del Piero will turn 33 in November and is reconsidering his future at both international and club level, particularly his contract renewal at Juventus.
“There are some meetings planned, dates in which we will talk, so the climate is not stormy – not from me and not from the club.
“There is the intelligence of the people involved that allows us to discuss our points of view that at this moment are certainly different, but we hope they will come together.”
channel 4