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Prandelli plays down 'cliche' Italy comparisons with 2006
May 30, 2012 10:52:00 AM
The Azzurri boss feels the current situation can't be compared with the events from six years ago, as he hopes his players will unite following the Scommessopoli scandal
Italy coach Cesare Prandelli does not believe that the developments in the Scommessopoli probe ahead of Euro 2012 are akin to what happened before the 2006 World Cup.The Azzurri's preparations for the tournament were infamously disrupted by the Calciopoli scandal, but Marcello Lippi nonetheless led the country to an unprecedented triumph in Germany.
Domenico Criscito was dropped from Italy's squad for the European Championship earlier this week due to his alleged role in the scandal, while Leonardo Bonucci is also under investigation, but Prandelli is hopeful that his squad won't be distracted by recent events.
"The comparisons to 2006 seem like a cliche to me. The situation's different now," Prandelli stated at a press conference.
"They always say that Italy become more united in difficult situations, and I hope that is the case now, too. However, I don't believe in the theory that we can only perform under pressure.
"We should be giving our best in a calm atmposphere as well. The important thing now is to show the people that we are determined to clean up football."
Italy have been paired with Croatia, Republic of Ireland and Spain at Euro 2012 and start the tournament against the title holders on June 10.
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