MILAN: Italy host Croatia at the San Siro today in a crucial Euro 2016 qualifier with misfiring striker Mario Balotelli’s place in the team under threat.
The four-time world champions are in reconstruction mode after a second straight first-round exit from the World Cup where mercurial striker Balotelli failed to live up to expectations.
After a poor start to his Liverpool career, Balotelli was sidelined by new coach Antonio Conte for their opening three Group H wins against Norway, Azerbaijan and Malta.
And without him Italy are currently running second behind leaders Croatia on goal difference.
To general surprise, Conte called Balotelli into his squad for Croatia and a friendly against Albania on Tuesday in Genoa.
Speculation from Italy’s Coverciano training ground this week suggested it could be Balotelli’s last chance to convince Conte that he still has a future in blue.
Although Balotelli is reported to be suffering from a minor hamstring injury and is not expected to start against Niko Kovac’s side, the striker has been watched closely all week.
“Today he’s here and he has to answer to me. I will judge him by what he does in the next seven to nine days,” said Conte.
Italy’s players, at least in public, have been quick to rally to Balotelli’s cause.
“Until now Balotelli has been training well and that’s what counts,” said Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini. “For you (media), what counts is how many times he sneezes, goes to the toilet, calls his mum or his girlfriend.
“All we care about is the squad, winning on Sunday and this is something you can’t do on your own, we have to do it together.”
Milan midfielder Mattia De Sciglio called on the media to “leave him alone” and added: “He’s always in the spotlight because of his unique character, but he’s a good guy and easy to get along with.
“On the pitch he has what it takes to come back and prove people wrong.” AFP