[LaPalma]

So, I just decided to open this topic concerning the qualification for the EURO 2008 in Swiss/Austria...

[arivanjj]

Donadoni considered quitting!

Roberto Donadoni has admitted that he was tempted to quit as Italy Coach after enduring a difficult start to life on the Azzurri bench.

The Nazionale obtained a draw with Lithuania and was then defeated 3-1 in the World Cup Final repeat with France in Paris, leaving the qualifiers with Ukraine and Georgia as must-win games.

“I spoke to the CONI chief Gianni Petrucci and told him that I was willing to resign, but he explained what his ideas were and in the end we agreed on the future plans,” said Donadoni in Coverciano, where the squad is gathered in view of Saturday’s match with Ukraine at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

“There were also rumours suggesting that I may be axed, but I must confess that I felt total support from the Federation – this flattered me and motivated me even more.

“We are aware that Saturday we will have to give our all and remain concentrated, because this is a decisive match and we must win.”

Reports suggest that the Stadio Olimpico may not be totally supportive of the world champions, but the former Livorno tactician doesn’t think this will be the case.

“I don’t see why the Roman supporters would be hostile towards us,” he continued.

“We chose Rome in recognition of Italy’s capital and in order to honour a Roma player [Francesco Totti], who for many reasons will not be part of the match.”

The former Milan winger, yet to win any of his three games in charge, also dismissed reports that Antonio Cassano had been omitted from the squad given his unpopular status within the Giallorossi fan base in the city.

"Cassano was left out for other reasons," he stated when asked about the Real Madrid ace whom he hailed as the future of his Azzurri side only last month.

"People can consider my call-ups in any way they wish. I may take backwards or sideward steps, but my decisions are based on form and that is why I didn't name my squad until late last night [10.30pm local time].

"But nobody has been thrown out, the doors to the national side are always open."

Alex Del Piero will make his return to the Nazionale, along with Luca Toni, and is thrilled of the new opportunity he has been given.

"I am very glad to return and I can’t wait to go onto the pitch,” said the Juve captain.

“It’s exciting to return as a world champion, we must focus on the next two games that are decisive for our qualification to the European Championship.”


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