Italy coach Roberto Donadoni has moved to reassure Alessandro Del Piero that he is still a part of his plans for the Euro 2008 finals.
Del Piero was left out of Donadoni’s squad for Wednesday’s friendly with Portugal and his omission has cast doubt on the Juve man’s participation in this summer’s tournament.
“I thought about looking at a few new players because this is one of the last chances before the European Championship,” Donadoni told the press.
“With four months to go to the European Championship, no one should feel exluded.
“Del Piero is intelligent, he knows what the situation is very well.
“Del Piero is not sacked, even if in that role I prefer there to be a certain type of player.”
Another player still in with a chance of making Italy’s squad is Antonio Cassano. The former Roma player has impressed during his loan spell at Sampdoria and Donadoni is looking to see further improvement from the attacker.
The Italy coach added: “Cassano must change a few aspects of his character. He’s growing and he can do more now. I’m confident and I wait.”
