Juventus captain Alessandro Del Piero has not given up hopes of returning to the Azzurri side in time for the 2010 World Cup defence. His excellent form so far this season has prompted calls for Italy boss Marcello Lippi to select Del Piero for the World Cup qualification process, but Del Piero himself isn't concerned about missing out.

"Right now Lippi is testing out other players and that is not a problem because I know he respects me as much as I respect him," Del Piero said.

"I would like to end my career with the 2010 World Cup."