Lippi close to settling Italy World Cup squad

Italy coach Marcello Lippi says his World Cup squad is close to being settled.

Lippi has always had a strong relationship with the Bianconeri and Ciro Ferrara, recently sacked from the club, was his assistant in the Nazionale.

“At this moment Zaccheroni is a tactician of good experience and he can do well at Juventus,” said Lippi.

Speaking in Catanzaro at the Ceravolo award ceremony, the Azzurri boss was also asked about his 2010 plans.

“Around 70 per cent of the squad is already decided and it is the one that has been playing as first choice.

“It is only right that everyone has fun sponsoring their favourites, but I have only six or seven players to decide on, choosing among the 20 who I am following and are doing well.

“I'll make my decision in May. Will there be any surprises? If there were, telling you would stop them being surprises… You'll have to wait for the right moment.”