One bad game doesn't define a players career. He was a quality player with tremendous tactical nous and versatility. That he continued to play until 37 at the top level confirms his undeniable class.
He probably wouldn't have played any worse than Cannavaro or Chiellini this summer.... Exactly. If that were the case Maldini should be considered to be in the same boat a he was outjumped by Ahn to score and eliminate Italy. Are we forgetting if it weren't for Panucci, we may not have made Euro 2008?
Even without his goal against Scotland, Italy would have still qualified. But judging him on his defensive abilities, his man marking and one vs one abilities were average at best. He could provide some very good crosses when going forward though, and he seemed to be a big threat at set pieces even though he was not particularly tall or muscular. I have a couple of questions regarding Panucci: 1) Why was he not called up for WC98? Surely a better option than playing Costacurta at RB? 2) Why did he never sing the national anthem?
& he scored in the finals against Romania, possibly helping us from getting eliminated after we lost to Holland 3-0.....
Your right,i never forget that game against Ireland in the dieing seconds of the game with that header if i recall...but calling him a legend i dont think so,but he did his job
He had hoped he'd be fit. I guess the coach saw no reason to risk it and, as they're up 3-0, I'd say he was correct.
this is great, just great! http://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Nazionale/24-08-2010/balotelli-stop-si-allunga-71891723311.shtml Balotelli's injury seems more serious than originally thought. He will miss more time at Man City and may even affect the 1st set of qualifiers for the Azzurri!
Based on this no matter the end result he should start that first game with Cassano. Gives Italy their best chance right now.
I'm hoping Balotelli can play on thursday or the weekend just to get some game time as he hasnt played much. Only for Italy and that 30 minute cameo where he got hurt but if he is fit he starts with those two.
As long as Gilardino is healthy Pazzini won't start either of the first two qualifiers. Balotelli won't either unless it's on the right. Just my opinion, of course.
The starting 3 upfront for the Azzurri for the forseeable future should be Pazzini, Balotelli, and Cassano.... PERIOD!
You are correct... Gila is Prandelli # 1 CF. The 2nd CF spot is between Pazzini, Amauri and Borriello. ...
Couple of quotes from Prandelli yesterday: Prandelli: ‘It’s easy to deal with Balotelli’ ‘No problems. He said he wanted to play for us and the Under-21’s’ ‘I’m working to the future, but could ask for Totti and Del Piero’s help’ ‘I never fought with Cassano and he had a great start with the Azzurri’