CESARE PRANDELLI ADMITS he has doubts about how far his Italy side can go at Euro 2012.
The national team coach insists that the Italians do not have a clear objective as they head into the tournament, but added that he is unsure as to whether the 2006 World Cup winners can be major players at the European Championship.
“To be honest I am really curious to see whether or not we have a side good enough to do something at this tournament,” Prandelli said. ”I have no objectives whatsoever. Qualifying for Euro 2012 was our objective but the way we did it made us very happy because nobody expected us to play at such a high level.
“Since then we have had the odd injury problem and the odd player who didn’t quite live up to expectations and it has left us wondering whether or not we can both play in a certain way and be major players at this tournament.”
Italy lock horns with Spain in their Euro 2012 opener on June 10, before taking on Croatia four days later. They then meet Ireland on 18 June in their last group game, of course. Meanwhile , there was some promising news on the injury front ahead of the opener against Spain, as attacker Mario Balotelli appears to be match fit in time for Sunday’s encounter
The Manchester City forward picked up a muscle injury on Monday, and there were fears that he could be forced to sit out the clash with the reigning champions due to the knock. However, Balotelli resumed regular training action again yesterday, and showcased his fine form by netting a hat-trick in the 10-against-10 practice game at the end of the session.
“Balotelli has an adductor strain. But it’s nothing serious. He will probably be ready for the first match,” Prandelli said.
