Roberto Baggio’s recent form has lead to calls for a recall to the Italian squad for next week’s friendly against Portugal.
Internet petitions and calls from some of the country’s leading coaches came after Baggio’s performance against Piacenza on Saturday, when the legendary striker scored one goal, made another and hit the post as Brescia’s beat Piacenza 4-1 away.
Former Milan coach, Alberto Zaccheroni said: “I think the national team needs people that are in form, It seems to me that Baggio is an exceptional form right now.”
Saturday’s performance, combined with the injury to Alessandro Del Piero, has helped pressurise Italian coach Giovanni Trapattoni into recalling the veteran striker.
Dino Zoff also joined the campaign for 35-year-old Baggio to be recalled.
“When he’s in form, Baggio can play anywhere,” said Zoff.
Current Italian manager Giovanni Trapattoni rejected calls for Baggio to be included in the squad for the World Cup last summer and it seems unlikely he will capitulate to the latest clamour for his recall.
Baggio today spoke out over the possible call up of Juventus’s Mauro Camoranesi, who has dual nationality, andis still deciding whether to play for Italy or Argentina.
‘If that happens then I will go and play for Argentina,” said Baggio.
“I feel great and it’s a pleasure to be held in esteem by so many great coaches, but at the end of theday the decision is down to Trapattoni.
“I’m in good form and I know I will be able to improve and add maturity – but I also felt good on the eve of the World Cup.” he added
