Lippi unfazed by lacklustre displays
The Italians go into tomorrow’s World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria in Turin having struggled in front of goal in their last four games.
It was two own-goals from Georgia captain Kakha Kaladze, in fact, that handed the world champions a 2-0 victory on Saturday in Tbilisi.
“This is our story,” said Lippi. “In qualifying we have never shined.
“There have been better games than others. But we, just like other national teams, have always been a team of finals. Our only thoughts should be on going to the World Cup, then in those 30-40 days there, everything will be different.”
The win over Georgia kept the Italians on top of Group Eight with a one-point advantage over Ireland and with a game in hand.
The manner of Italy’s five victories and two draws in their seven games, however, has led to criticism in the media and from the fans.
“But in the international scene, it’s like this,” said Lippi. “Look at France. They had fallen to the fourth position in their group.”
Lippi has not ruled out changing his formation for tomorrow’s clash.
“The 4-4-2 has not disappointed me,” said Lippi. “It could be that I will use it again but maybe I change it.”
The good news for Lippi is the return of Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi, who missed the clash in Georgia through suspension. Fabio Quagliarella is doubtful after sustaining a knock on his knee on Saturday.
Meanwhile, former AC Milan boss Arrigo Sacchi has defended Lippi’s decision to continue to leave Sampdoria forward Antonio Cassano out of his squad.
“Cassano? Football is a complex matter,” said Sacchi. “It has 11 uncertainties, not just one. Perhaps Lippi doesn’t call up Cassano because he doesn’t give him enough guarantees or because he is convinced that he is a lone striker and would not fit in with his tactics.”
Cassano was in Roberto Donadoni’s Euro 2008 squad but ever since Lippi returned as coach, the striker has not featured for the Azzurri.
The former Roma and Real Madrid forward has had a reputation as something of a troublemaker, but has matured in his two seasons at Sampdoria.
Sacchi, who guided Italy from 1991 until 1996, believes Lippi knows what he is doing.
“Lippi is an experienced coach,” he said. “He tries to select players that are the most reliable and who can give him the best.”
