When Roberto Donadoni decided to recall Alessandro Del Piero for the Nazionale squad at Euro 2008, it was probably the general publics view that this would be his swansong. Called for World Cups 98, 2002 and 2006 as well as Euro 96, 2000 and 2004 it is fair to say that Del Piero has had a torrid time in the big stages. Whilst often showing sparkling form in Serie A, when it came to Italy Del Piero seemed to withdraw, almost shrink at the major tournaments. He is Italy's fourth highest all time goal scorer, yet most of these goals were in qualifiers. Euro 2008 was given to Alex to prove he was of use to the national cause, and to be honest he had a mixed tournament. When Italy were crushed by the Dutch, it was Del Piero who impressed as a substitute, and seemed to bring to life Italys attack. He was given a start against Romania, and dissapointed upfront, and was yet again sent to the bench for the vital game against the French. He was introduced to a rapturous reception late in extra time against the Spanish and again created one or two chances, but Italy went out on penalties, and surely signalled the time for Del Piero to stop being called.
Del Piero has provoked nationwide debate in Italy about his inclusion in National squads. There seems to be a quite ridiculous attitude of; "I can never forgive him for missing two chances against France in the Euro 2000 final"; yes that is true but then why not blame Nesta for heading to Sylvain Wiltord in injury time and allowing him to get a shot away, or Toldo for allowing that same shot to slip underneath him? Totti had a torrid World Cup 2006 to be honest, but no-one crucified the Roman for his poor showing.
He has on occasions proved useful for Italy. His header gave Italy a win over Mexico in World Cup 2002, and sent them through to the next round. In 2006 he scored a stunning late goal to kill off German hopes in the semi final, and converted a penalty in the shootout in the final. Are these little memories enough to justify his inclusion? Perhaps not, but there are some justifications for his presence.
In the 2007/2008 season, he was Italy's top scorer, and thus couldnt be ignored. When used in the right position, he is a perfect compliment to work behind a centre forward and create opportunities, as we have seen down the years in his partnership with David Trezeguet. He doesnt seem to need pace anymore, and instead adapts his game meaning that he can cope with the ageing process.
With Italy he has often been played out of position which has rendered him ineffective in games. If he is used correctly, he may prove more fruitful. And indeed we shall see, as returning Coach Marcello Lippi has called him up again for the friendly against Austria. Whether or not he can play in the World Cup in 2010 is a topic for debate, but off the bench, you may find that at 35 (in 2010) he can still make a difference.
