World Cup 2010

Villarreal Striker Giuseppe Rossi: Italy Criticism Doesn’t Affect Me

The hitman is ready to show Azzurri head coach Marcello Lippi some magic on Thursday night, when the Yellow Submarine tussle with Lazio...

Oct 22, 2009 12:10:42 PM

Giuseppe Rossi of Villarreal in training action for La Nazionale

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Giuseppe Rossi of Villarreal in training action for La Nazionale

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Giuseppe Rossi

Villarreal striker Giuseppe Rossi is ready to challenge Marcello Lippi's judgement when his side take on Lazio in front of the Italy coach later tonight.

Lippi is expected at the Stadio Olimpico to watch the youngster. Critics have hit out at Rossi's lack of goals for La Nazionale, raising doubts over whether he will be in the squad for South Africa 2010. However, the hitman is unfazed.

"I hope to play well," he told the press. "[Lippi's] presence will be a stimulus for me. I am not worried at all about the criticism I received regarding my performances for Italy.

"If you don't play well then you just have to work more and hope things go well."

Lazio will be hoping to strengthen their position in their Europa League group with a win against the Spanish side, who have been struggling in the Primera Division.

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com