Parma striker Antonio Cassano has welcomed Italy coach Cesare Prandelli's challenge.
Prandelli says the Parma forward is in consideration for a place in his World Cup squad and that any decision made will be purely technical.
"Yes I heard what Prandelli said and I was very pleased. I have to thank him. I understand that the challenge is beautiful and open," Cassano told Corriere dello Sport.
"I am very happy because what will determine it is what happens in the field. And from that point of view I would say that I will give my all.
"It is a challenge that will allow me to start over in some ways, but also to conclude. I am a player who has had too much and on occasion thrown it away. I've always been one to do that.
"Now I have to think less about what was and more about the present. The present is what I want, the World Cup.
"Have I considered going? Sometimes I think about it. Often we talk. Of course in Brazil they enjoy certain things like their football. To get to the World Cup would be a success.
"Perhaps I could be decisive, to be appreciated there, it would be something I could keep with me for quite a while."
For breaking stories and all the great banter like us on Facebook: facebook.com/tribalfootball