Roberto Donadoni has confirmed that Alessandro Del Piero still has a chance

Don opens Alex door
Monday 21 April, 2008

Italy boss Roberto Donadoni has confirmed that Alessandro Del Piero still has a chance to make Italy's Euro 2008 squad.

The Juventus veteran is in great form, but wasn't called upon for the Azzurri's last two international friendlies and seemed unlikely to be included in the Nazionale's 23-man list.

However, last Sunday's hat trick against Atalanta may have earned him a chance to travel to Austria and Switzerland this summer.

After all, Del Piero has scored 17 goals in 33 games this season, a record which is yet to be matched by any of his direct rivals for a place.

“I have never said that Alessandro has lost the Azzurri shirt,” explained Donadoni when questioned on the Bianconero's chances.

“No one can blame me for this because there is still a long way to go before the European Championship,” he added.

Experience at international level will be essential with France, Holland and Romania all in their group, so Donadoni could opt against leaving the Juve No 10 at home.

“My ambition is to do well with the Nazionale and to keep my job for a long time,” added the former Livorno tactician.

“This is my main and only target so I am totally focused on it. I have no intentions to leave because what I would like to do is to keep on coaching the Azzurri,” he concluded.

*channel4