The Fiorentina and Italian play maker Riccardo Montolivo believes he is the ideal replacement for Andrea Pirlo, who will miss the early stages of the tournament through injury. The AC Milan deep lying play maker is set to miss the Italy’s opening two group games against Paraguay and New Zealand after injuring his calf muscle in a recent friendly against Mexico. Italy are the defending World Champions and will be aiming on July 11th to reach a joint record five World Cup titles – currently held by Brazil.
Italy are expected to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation or 4-3-3 in the opening game, with Montolivo breaking from midfield to support the lone front man Alberto Gilardino. The former Atalanta man praised Andrea Pirlo for his ‘special’ ability, however he believed that there are ’3 or 4′ players in the current Italian squad that can step up to the plate for the Azzurri. The went on to add: “Pirlo is a special player. But I think there are two or three Italian players that can play in his position when he is missing. I have played in Pirlo’s position this season. I believe this role suits me, it’s ideal for me.”
Montolivo also spoke about being ‘thrilled’ at his involvement in the World Cup, having watched his countrymen lift the crown back in 2006 on TV: “In 2006 I watched the World Cup on TV, now I am here. This is the most important tournament in my career and I am thrilled. The experience of playing in the Champions League this year has given me added confidence and I am ready to have a say”. Many are not backing the reigning World Champions to successfully retain their World crown, despite having been drawn in a very favourable group. Marcelo Lippi is back having stepped down in 2006 and taken over from Roberto Donadoni, who’s unsuccessful European Champions in 2008 cost him.
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Andy Francos and Andy Francos, Andy Francos. Andy Francos said: Can #Italy playermaker Ricardo Montolivo step up to the plate? http://bit.ly/caBxyN [...]