WHAT ALL AZZURI FANS WANT EXCEPT ONE

This might be just any Azzuri fan in 2010. I have to say i am big fan of Italy. I grew up worshipping the likes of Nesta, Maldini, Baggio, Pirlo, Totti, Del Piero and even Vieri too. In the Korea/Japan 2002, Italy would have won weren't it for the hand of the referee but four years later, they proved exactly what they had, a world class team.

But now fast forward to 2009, a year to go and even i have to say, i am doubting their credentials. It was worrying enough in 2006 when they had, if i remember correctly the squad with the oldest average age, but even know it looks like its gonna be that way!!!!

Lippi is reluctant to infuse some of the newer blood coursing through the rich veins  of Italian football. He insists on Zambrotta, Gattuso and the likes, all legends mind you but a little bit past their prime.

But i am wrong in some bits, look at Camorenesi and Cannavaro. The central man still going strong but his mental awarness is coupled with a younger legs beside him. A sort of brain and brawn combination. This works and with another brain, brawn and skill behind them, goalkeeping legend Buffon, defence looks good. But who in their right minds has ever doubted an Italian defence, its attack we are more worried about.

At best defence can earn you draws, but attack provides victory. So why the heck Cassano cannot be called up, i have no idea. Pirlo is good in playmaker role but even he aint got the legs for it, he has the pass and brains for it, not the dribble. This is all well an good for weaker nations, but bring in Brazil and Spain and crap, battle of the sexes, famous Italian defence versus the famous Spanish and Brazil attack. this game would probably end with Italy having 3 shots on goal and Brazil having like 15 all of which Buffon kept out of course.

Pace is something drastically lacking in Italy sides, even their counter attacking cannot supplement their defence tactics. Lippi needs to wake up and smell some onions or flowers or ammonia or whatever that  will turn a cog or two in old technical factory that is his brain.

Balotelli is immature yes, Giovinco not quite there, Cigarini should be inside, Santon should be a certainity. Come on Lippi, you are at the threshold of back to back titles, don't let the Azzuri down because of your love for the old men. Totti is good maybe he can be called back but Zambrotta tell him to get used to the bench, Gattuso tell him to retire from football, to leave with some grace. But maybe the old gaffer has a trick up his sleeve. Who knows