Forward thinking for Lippi

Luca Toni, Alberto Gilardino and Antonio di Natale are all missing for Italy but Azzurri coach Marcello Lippi still plans to still field an attacking line-up against the Republic of Ireland in Bari.

Lippi looks set to start with Giampaolo Pazzini, Giuseppe Rossi and Simone Pepe in the clash at the San Nicola Stadium.

Sampdoria striker Pazzini is expected to earn his first start after scoring on his national team debut away to Montenegro in Saturday’s 2-0 win.

Villarreal striker Rossi, who did not appear in the Podgorica game at the weekend, is eager to show what he can do in the national team shirt.

“If I play, I will try to give my best for the team and do the right thing,” said Rossi.

“In my case, as a striker, that would be either to score or help a team-mate by giving the right assist.”

Victory would give Group Eight leaders Italy 16 points with four qualifying games remaining.

The Azzurri go into the encounter two points clear of Ireland after Giovanni Trapattoni’s side were held to a 1-1 draw against Bulgaria at the weekend.

The Italians have reason to be optimistic, having gone unbeaten in their five qualifiers so far and conceding just twice.

And as long as his team makes use of the talent at their disposal, Rossi believes there should not be any unwanted surprises.

“We will go out on the pitch calm and aware that we have an important opportunity,” he said.

“We know it’s going to be a difficult game.

“Ireland is a team that battles and fights but we hope to show our quality and consolidate our top position.”

However, Lippi has warned his side not to underestimate Ireland, a team coached by former Italy boss Trapattoni.

“Ireland is the only team that can battle with us for the top position,” said Lippi.