Lippi defends Vieri call-up
Marcello Lippi has defended his decision to call up Christian Vieri to the Italy squad.
Italian national team coach Marcello Lippi has defended his decision to call up Christian Vieri.Sections of the Italian press have criticised Lippi for his decision to choose the Monaco striker ahead of the likes of Filippo Inzaghi and Cristiano Lucarelli but the coach has explained his reasoning.
"Vieri is very important to us," said Lippi. "I know you [the press] don't agree with me but that is my decision.
"The fact that he said that only Italy could beat Brazil shows great responsibility.
"I want confident people."
However, Vieri's participation in the game on Wednesday has been put in doubt after he suffered an ankle injury during training.
His condition will be assessed before the game with Germany.
Despite the setback of not being selected for this game, both Inzaghi and Lucarelli have underlined their determination to be selected for the World Cup squad.
