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Italian News
Di Natale: Critics Can Hush
2008-05-31 22:44:37
Udinese striker Antonio Di Natale insists he has silenced the critics who feel he does not deserve a place in the Italy team.


Two goals against Belgium on Friday night justified not only his inclusion in the squad, but his place in the starting XI in Italy's final warm-up fixture before Euro 2008.

And he is now set to be confirmed in the first team selection of Italy coach Roberto Donadoni for Euro 2008, despite a wealth of other strikers including Alessandro Del Piero and Antonio Cassano in the 23-man squad.

"It is an honour to be here with some true champions and I am happy with my performance and my two goals," he said.

"I am here too, but it is not as if I am playing against Del Piero and Cassano.

"Whenever I have played, though, I have always shown my worth."

Indeed Di Natale, along with Bayern Munich's Luca Toni, is the top scorer during Donadoni's regime.

With six goals apiece, they are likely to lead the line against Holland on June 9.

And several big clubs may be casting a glance over Di Natale, who always excels as part of a strong national team, as well as standing out with the Bianconeri.

However, the 30-year-old is happy to stay in Friulu Venezia Giulia, where he feels at home and will be playing in the UEFA Cup anyway next season.

"The (Udinese owners) Pozzo's have always given me faith in my ability and I dedicate these goals to them," he added.

"I feel happy in Udine."

A goal from support-man Mauro Camoranesi completed a 3-1 win over Belgium on Friday night with Wesley Sonck scoring a consolation in the last minute for Italy's opponents.

On Monday, the Azzurri travel to Baden in Austria, their base for the whole of Euro 2008.

After facing Holland in Berne, Italy then face Romania and France in Zurich.

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