31/05/2002

ITALY PLAY WAITING GAME WITH INZAGHI

Filippo Inzaghi is making good progress is his fight against a knee injury, but the Italy camp refuses to be drawn on whether he will be fit to face Ecuador. "That decision has not yet been made," said team doctor Andrea Ferretti.

Inzaghi had been tipped to take his place in Italy's starting line-up alongside Christian Vieri in attack but has spent the past few days receiving treatment after twisting his knee during the clash with Kashima Antlers.

Ferretti rejected fears that the AC Milan striker would have to pull out of the squad altogether, but could not confirm his participation in Italy's first match against Ecuador on Monday.

"Filippo took part in a good training session on Friday with athletic and conditioning exercises and he is perfectly in line with the recovery schedule planned for him.

"If there are no last-minute problems and coach Trapattoni has no objections, on Saturday he will start working with the ball.

"Will he be ready to play against Ecuador? That decision has not yet been made."

Ferretti went on to insist that Gianluca Zambrotta and Marco Delvecchio would both be available for selection against Ecuador despite picking up slight knocks during Thursday's friendly against Vegalta Sendai.
 

[Onefootball.com]