Nesta 'could recover in time for Monday opener'

Italy defender Alessandro Nesta could recover in time for the Azzurri's Group E opener against Ghana on Monday, coach Marcello Lippi said.

Nesta missed training on Thursday along with full-back Gianluca Zambrotta and midfielder Gennaro Gattuso who have both been ruled out of Italy's opener with thigh injuries.

'Nesta has the most chance to recover (quickly),' said Lippi, adding that the centre-half could be fit in time for the Ghana game.

Milan central defender Nesta is suffering from a recurrence of an old adductor muscle injury.

'It is an injury that he has been dealing with for some time, for a few months,' the Italy coach told a news conference.

Lippi said that he was not overly worried by the injuries that have inflicted his side in the past week and refused to discuss any possible tactical changes he may have to make.

'My only worry is to get to the day before the game with as many players in the best condition possible.

'Unfortunately, we have had some injuries. You hope, obviously, that you will have everyone available but if you have faith in your squad you can't cry about a few players missing.

'You need to have faith in the squad,' added Lippi who said it was important that reserve players knew he had confidence in them.

'I've never cried about injuries. I might have a thousand faults as a coach but I feel it is very important that all the players in the squad feel important. That is my character, if someone is injured then I try to find something positive.

'I want to transmit the greatest faith possible to my players and especially in moments when there are injuries.

'I am not angry or upset by the injuries, we will get to Sunday or Monday morning and then decide,' added the Italy coach.

The Azzurri also face the United States and the Czech Republic in Group E.


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