Italy coach Marcello Lippi insists the spirit of his World Cup squad is more important than any individual.

The Coach has been criticised for leaving out creative figures like Antonio Cassano, but sticks to his guns.

"I can say I never had particularly complicated relations with any players," Lippi told Domenica.

"Even if we are dealing with a great champion, he can only give his best if he puts himself at the disposal of the team.

"Otherwise all of his quality will never emerge properly."