Marco Di Vaio admits he is quietly confident of an Italy recall.

"In all honesty, I do spare a thought for the Nazionale," grinned the 32-year-old who has scored 19 goals for Bologna this season.

"Many people have talked to me about it. I hope the call can come, as it would be a source of pride for me and the team.

"Having said that, I realise I am 32 and in past seasons I didn't do terribly well. In those years [Marcello] Lippi constructed a winning group of players it is difficult to break in to.

"What I have done up until now probably isn't sufficient, as I'll need to do well right to the end of the term."