Barzagli stays in Italy squad despite injury
Reuters - Friday 08 June 2012, 17:33
Italy centre-back Andrea Barzagli
will remain in their Euro 2012 squad after coach Cesare
Prandelli and medics decided he would be available for some of
the tournament despite a calf problem.
"The scan this morning showed a noticeable improvement in
the player's calf," Italy team doctor Enrico Castellacci was
quoted as saying by ANSA.
"We have decided to keep him, he won't be available for the
first two matches but we will try to get him fit for the third.
There is silent optimism."
Defender Davide Astori had been flown in as cover in case
Barzagli had to be sent home.
Italy, who face holders Spain in their Group C opener in
Poland's Gdansk on Sunday, are set to use a new system with
three at the back and midfielder Daniele De Rossi playing in the
centre of defence, partly because of Barzagli's injury.
"You are not talking with a central defender," a smiling De
Rossi told reporters. "You are talking with a player who is
willing, that knows how to adapt and to accept everything.
"Maybe I could become the best defender in the world."