Saturday, 30th August, 2014
New Italy coach Antonio Conte has named his squad for the country's forthcoming friendlies against the Netherlands and Norway – and Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli has been left out.
Conte left his post as Juventus boss earlier this summer and was promptly installed as Cesare Prandelli's successor as Italy coach.
And he has offered a glimpse into his thinking for the Azzurri going forward, naming his first international squad.
Veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is kept faith with, while in defence, AC Milan starlet Mattia De Sciglio is included.
Conte has named Sunderland winger Emanuele Giaccherini, who is recalled to the national team fold, a player the former Juventus coach is familiar with from his time at the Bianconeri.
Up front, Conte has selected Roma striker Mattia Destro, AC Milan forward Stephan El Shaarawy, along with Pablo Osvaldo, who is now back in Italian football with Inter, having joined the Nerazzurri on loan from Southampton.
Italy Squad To Face Netherlands and Norway
Goalkeepers: Buffon, Padelli, Perin and Sirigu
Defenders: Astori, Bonucci, Chiellini, De Sciglio, Paletta and Ranocchia
Midfielders: Candreva, Darmian, De Rossi, Florenzi, Giaccherini, Maggio, Marchisio, Parolo, Pasqual, Poli, Verratti
Strikers: Destro, El Shaarawy, Giovinco, Immobile, Osvaldo, Zaza
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