Di Natale available for Brazil 2014

Antonio Di Natale has told Italy boss Cesare Prandelli that he’ll respond to the call if he is needed for next year’s World Cup.

It was thought that the Udinese striker’s international career had come to an end after the Azzurri finished as runners-up to Spain at Euro 2012.



However, Prandelli has refused to close the door on any player with Brazil 2014 just over a year away.



“Prandelli has made a decision to focus on youth,” the 35-year-old told the Gazzetta dello Sport. “That should be respected and understood.



“However, I’m here if Prandelli needs me. If he calls me then do you know what I’d say? I’d tell him that I’ll go to Brazil!”



The forward has scored 22 goals in 32 League games for the Stadio Friuli outfit this term. Only Napoli’s Edinson Cavani has netted more in the top-flight.



Di Natale has scored 11 goals in 42 games for his country.


-->

Montolivo labels Balotelli a "superstar"

Ricardo Montolivo has hailed Mario Balotelli as a "superstar" following his brace in Italy's 2-0 win over Malta on Tuesday.

The AC Milan forward grabbed both goals for Cesare Prandelli's side and Balotelli's club teammate Montolivo praised the ability of the former Manchester City man after the game.



"Malta were clammed up and it was tough to find spaces. Luckily we had that superstar in attack and he sorted it out for us," Montolivo told reporters.



"I think Mario has become fully aware of his abilities and has learned not to fall into the trap of provocation. He has had a remarkable impact on Milan too and I hope he won't stop.



"Balotelli is a centre-forward and is therefore the leading point of the attack. We can even give him the ball badly, as he is so physically strong that he can hold off defenders and find space. Right now, he is a complete player."



Balotelli has scored 10 goals for club and country since moving back to Serie A in January.