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Italians fight for places

Giovanni Trapattoni has confirmed that competition is hotting up to gain a place in the Italian national squad for Euro 2004.

Italy's top strikers have been in prolific form this season and Trapattoni is confident that he has the strike-power to be successfully in the summer.

The experienced and hugely successful coach has confirmed that he will take five strikers to the championships, but is unsure as to who will be his final choices.

''As for the attack, I'll take five,'' Trapattoni told Il Giorno. ''Possibly Vieri, Inzaghi, Totti and Del Piero.''

''Then there will be a race between Cassano, Miccoli, Di Vaio and Bazzani.

''This league gives me plenty of choices.''

The veteran boss has also refused to dismiss the possibility that influential defender Paolo Maldini could make an unexpected return to the international fold.

Trapattoni is a known admirer of the Milan legend and has conceded that he would encourage any talk of a Maldini comeback.

''I've heard Maldini talk recently,'' he continued. ''I told him that the national team door is always open if he wants to think it over.''

Italy have been in excellent form in recent internationals and Trapattoni is confident that this level of performance can be replicated in Portugal.

''The year 2003 has been really positive in the performances and in the results.

''But we must not forget the threat of good sides like France, England, Holland, Czech Republic and Portugal.''