Gila and Marchisio face axe
Tuesday 22 June, 2010
Italy boss Marcello Lippi will drop Alberto Gilardino and Claudio Marchisio for Thursday's final group match against Slovakia, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The 62-year-old tactician is planning a number of big changes in the hope of giving his side a shock that will help them get the win they need to qualify.
La Gazzetta understands Gilardino has lost his place to Sampdoria striker Giampaolo Pazzini after failing to score in Italy's opening two matches.
Marchisio is also set to miss out, although it remains to be seen who replaces him in midfield, as it's dependant on the formation.
If Lippi persists with a 4-4-2, Mauro Camoranesi will step into Marchisio's shoes on the left-hand side. However, if Lippi decides to go with a 4-3-3 instead, La Gazzetta hears that Rino Gattuso will be given a starting berth.
There could also be another two changes at full-back with Gianluca Zambrotta swapping from the right to the left where he would replace Domenico Criscito.
Napoli's Christian Maggio would then start as Italy's right-back.
Football Italia