Lippi focused on Azzurri

Italy coach refuses to be drawn on Juve speculation

Last updated: 3rd February 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Lippi focused on Azzurri

Lippi: Concentrates on task in hand

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Marcello Lippi has rejected reports which have suggested he could leave his post as Italy coach after the World Cup.

The experienced tactician, who guided the Azzurri to World Cup glory four years ago, returned to the helm in 2008 after a disappointing European Championship under Roberto Donadoni.

While Italy have improved once more under his stewardship, speculation has nonetheless intimated he will step down for a second time after South Africa.

Rumours of a return to Juventus refuse to be silenced but Lippi insists this is not necessarily the case.

"I have in my mind only the national team," he said.

"I must find the four or five players still to be chosen and for that reason I am looking at around 20 of them.

"Then I will choose who is in the best condition.

"I have not said I will quit after South Africa. We will see. Let's play the World Cup first and then, maybe."

Italy will finalise their preparations for the World Cup finals with friendly games against Cameroon, Mexico and Switzerland.

The Azzurri will look to fine tune their side against Cameroon on 3rd March in Monaco, Mexico on 3rd June in Brussels and Switzerland two days later in Geneva.

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