Lippi says he has strong Italy soccer team
(Agencies)
Updated: 2005-06-08 10:25

Italy coach Marcello Lippi thinks he has a strong roster for a two-game North American exhibition tour, even without Francesco Totti, Christian Vieri and Alessandro Del Piero. 

The team plays Serbia-Montenegro on Wednesday at Toronto, then faces Ecuador on Saturday at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.

Only nine players were on the roster for Italy's 0-0 draw at Norway in a World Cup qualifier last weekend and just one started, Palermo defender Fabio Grosso.

"I made choices that were necessary. There were players that had been pushing hard all year and needed rest," Lippi said before the team left Tuesday. "I'm sorry for the American fans, who maybe were expecting more, but it couldn't be otherwise."

Lippi left out his regular forwards in favor of Cristiano Lucarelli, Luca Toni and David Di Michele.

Lucarelli, among seven players with the national team for the first time, led the Italian League's Serie A with 24 goals for Livorno. Toni scored 20 for Palermo and Di Michele had 15 with Udinese.

"The skill level of this team is notable, contrary to what one may think," Lippi said. "This is a good team, with guys that did well this season and proved themselves worthy of the blue jersey. They're all players that could have a place on this team in the future."

The 29-year-old Lucarelli turned down a larger contract offer from Torino and returned to his hometown club before last season. Livorno, in the top division for the first time in 55 years, then avoided getting relegated.

"This is an important milestone, which adds luster to a career that hasn't been top level, but has still given me plenty of satisfaction," Lucarelli said. "I'm realizing a dream, better late than never. I want to enjoy this moment, I don't feel fulfilled though — I hope Lippi keeps me in consideration for the future too."

Goalkeeper Angelo Peruzzi was surprised by his selection. The 35-year-old was Italy's starter in the late 1990s.

"I thought my international career was over," he said. "But now I realize it would be special to go to the World Cup next year, even as the third keeper."

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