Lippi still hopes to convince Nesta

(GSM) – Marcello Lippi revealed he still hopes Allessandro Nesta will reconsider his international retirement and choose to play for Italy at the World Cup.

Lippi’s comments come just 24 hours after claiming Nesta had given him a definitive answer in relation to his international career by calling time on it.

Yesterday it became clear that the Milan defender told the Italy coach he doesn’t want to put his fitness at risk or take a place away from someone who participated in the qualifying campaign.

“He told me, I believe in a definitive manner, that he doesn’t feel like it,” Lippi revealed.

“I am sorry. I wanted to give a spark. But I respect his decision.”

Today, Lippi said he’s still hoping to convince the 33-year-old defender.

“I am sorry for Nesta, but I hope that I can have him,” he told the press.

Nesta is not the only concern playing on Lippi’s mind though. The coach has become annoyed with the constant calls for the inclusion of Mario Balotelli.

“Balotelli? Every coach has his torment. England have it with John Terry, Brazil has it with Alexandre Pato and Ronaldinho. Mine is with Balotelli,” he added.

“Balotelli needs to think about winning with the under-21, then you never know what happens in future.”