Italy CT Roberto Mancini has admitted that ‘I couldn’t not call up’ Sampdoria striker Fabio Quagliarella, even if he is ‘getting old’.
Quagliarella is in line to make his first appearance for Italy in eight years against Finland or Liechtensten over the next fortnight, but some have focused on his 36 years of age than his 21 goals for Samp this season…
“Inter had a good game, an excellent match,” Mancini told Domenica Sportiva, referring to the Derby della Madonnina on Sunday.
Italy CT Roberto Mancini has admitted that ‘I couldn’t not call up’ Sampdoria striker Fabio Quagliarella, even if he is ‘getting old’.
Quagliarella is in line to make his first appearance for Italy in eight years against Finland or Liechtensten over the next fortnight, but some have focused on his 36 years of age than his 21 goals for Samp this season…
“Inter had a good game, an excellent match,” Mancini told Domenica Sportiva, referring to the Derby della Madonnina on Sunday.
“Certainly [Inter] were up for it because they wanted to make amends for their poor performance on Thursday in the Europa League.
“The Icardi saga? I honestly don’t know the problems that exist or have existed between them, so it’s hard for me to comment.
“We must win, although these games aren’t foregone conclusions, especially the first game, when motivation and our approach to the game will count.
“We must prepare for these matches well and be focused because every game has pitfalls hidden away.
“Finland are physically toned and won’t be a walk in the park. We also want to win lots of games for our place in the group.
“Quagliarella? He keeps scoring so I couldn’t not call him up. He’s getting old, that’s clear, but I think he can still give us a hand.
“Zaniolo? He’s doing well in the League and I’ve taken note of how Di Francesco played him.
He’s improving, but he’s a young lad and it takes time.
“I think his ideal position is in midfield. He has great physical quality and likes to get up the pitch to shoot.”
Finally, the former Inter boss was asked about Lorenzo Insigne’s absence.
“We’re without Insigne, so we’ll change something,” he concluded.
”Seeing a strong striker play through the middle is possible, but first the lads must get together and then we must begin training.”