Fans will have to wait until next week to discover if Francesco Totti will return to the Italy squad, according to coach Marcello Lippi.The Roma idol retired from international duty after winning the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany™ and has repeatedly broken down with injuries in the four years since. But there is media speculation that Totti may return to the Azzurri set-up as they prepare to defend their title at South Africa 2010.
"Will Totti be the only surprise on my list?" Lippi said. "I will give the list of the provisional squad on May 11. Of that list of 30 players, I will then have to reduce it to 23."
The Italy coach did announce that AC Milan defender Alessandro Nesta, who has turned down Lippi's advances before, will not be a member of the squad this summer. "I can only say that with regards to Nesta, I have lost hope," said the 62 year old.
When asked about the possibility of seeing Juventus forward Amauri make the squad, Lippi said: "I said that once Amauri got his Italian passport, I would consider it."
Amauri decision on hold
Amauri was given his Italian nationality last month but has yet to feature in the Azzurri squad. "I have not included Amauri because I have made my choices based on the ideals I have always followed," Lippi said.
The veteran tactician believes that the three-day training camp that is currently taking place in Rome with 29 players has, so far, benefited everyone. "I have spoken to the players," Lippi said.
"It's an opportunity to be in contact with them in view of the World Cup. I have reminded them of many things. We need to be convinced of our quality, and that Italy has had many times a starring role. I have told them what the programme will be."
Lippi is without Inter Milan and Roma players, who are involved in Wednesday's Coppa Italia final.
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