I can adjust to any formation, says Del Piero

By Barnaby Chesterman

Baden, Austria

June 7: Italy star Alessandro Del Piero said he could play in just about any attacking position regardless of formation if that meant securing a starting berth for the world champions’ Euro 2008 opener against the Netherlands.

Speaking to the press at Italy’s Casa Italia base just outside Baden on Saturday, Del Piero insisted he can fill a variety of roles in the forward line.

He is most used to playing as a second striker, which he admits is his favourite position, just off a main target man, such as Bayern Munich’s Luca Toni, who will start up front for Italy.

But with Italy coach Roberto Donadoni usually opting to play a 4-3-3 formation, with Toni supported by two wide men - probably Mauro Camoranesi on the right and Antonio Di Natale on the left — Del Piero might have to fit in to a less familiar position if he does play.

"I can play in three different attacking positions," said Del Piero.

"I could play in Di Natale’s position, instead of Toni or as a second striker.

"In the last friendly (a 3-1 victory over Belgium) I played as a second striker (when coming on as a substitute) but the coach decides the team and I’m at his disposition."

Del Piero admitted, though, that given the choice he would like to play off a main target man. "It’s very clear and I’ve spoken a lot about it in the past, I’ve always played as a second striker," he said. — AFP