Sampdoria coach Gigi del Neri respects the decisions of Italy counterpart Marcello Lippi, though believes Antonio Cassano deserves his Italy chance.

"Does the Coach have a duty to explain his choices? We are all not exactly forced to, but close enough, as there is a sort of rapport of collaboration between pundits and tacticians," mused Samp boss Del Neri.

"We can all have different ideas, for example on Cassano, but it is right that a Coach chooses those he considers opportune for his team."

The player has improved a great deal since joining the Blucerchiati and has helped them lead the Serie A table.

"He works, collaborates actively with everyone, is five years older than when I worked with him at Roma and is in an environment that keeps him calmer.

"Cassano is one of many who deserve to be in the Nazionale, but the Coach makes his decisions and must be respected."