Well we're off to a great start. While news of Chiellini's injury is still making it's rounds; another Azzurri star could be on the sidelines - Sebastian Giovinco. Reports indicate that the Parma attacker has been sidelined win a knee injury and will be out of action for the next 10 days. Since today's May 15th I'm not too troubled... This will at let give him time to rest up for the June 5th start. However, his injury does throw a wrench into Prandelli's selection process as Giovinco has no featured as a fixture in the mould of Cassano, Chiellini, or Pirlo for the Azzurri thus far.
In other injury news De Rossi has a fractured finger that may require a little surgery. This shouldn't impact his participation at Euro2012.
In other news Giancarlo Abete has confirmed that's Prandelli will likely stick around after Euro 2012 regardless of the teams performance.
"the outcome of the Euros is not a variable for Prandelli's confirmation." said the FIGC president.
I've had mixed feelings about Abete since the beginning of his reign. However, with this kind of backing it gives the entire Italy camp a very grounded feeling of continuity arriving into the euros. If you recall there was a circus even before the world cup with Lippi announcing he would be quitting after the world cup - then again that camp was a mess.
We have just over half a month until the commencement of this tournament and I have to admit I'm very excited to see every minute of it. There really is this sense of rejuvenation for the Azzurri. Aside from his record in exhibition matches, I've been very content with Prandelli so far. His selections for the most part have been justified and his tactics have been sound.
Let the countdown begin
