World Cup 2010: Gianluca Zambrotta claims Italy are not too old to defend their title

The full-back says la Nazionale have the right mix of players to defend their crown...

By Adam Scime

25 May 2010 18:22:00

Gianluca Zambrotta - Milan (Grazia Neri)

Italy defender Gianluca Zambrotta has brushed aside doubts regarding the Azzurri's World Cup chances, after many have claimed the squad is too old to do well in South Africa.

"In 2006 we knew it would be difficult, but we won. We are here to get to the end once again," he said at a press conference.

"We are old? We have nine winners from the World Cup in Germany, but that's just a percentage. This is an Azzurri side with a mix of younger and experienced players, they have just as much desire to do well and want to bring home a major trophy like the World Cup."

Like his team-mate Fabio Cannavaro yesterday, the 33-year-old hit back at the doubters.

"There has always been scepticism surrounding the national team, but we have gotten used to it and all know how to deal with the situation," he concluded.

Italy are currently training in Sistriere as coach Marcello Lippi looks to fine tune his team before the World Cup begins on June 11.