Italy striker Rossi remains a doubt for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil
Italy striker Giuseppe Rossi remains a doubt for the upcoming World Cup.
The Villarreal striker has suffered a series of injuries, including a cruciate ligament problem which he suffered in a match at Real Madrid.
Italy's head coach Cesare Prandelli admits he has been impressed by Rossi's efforts to regain full fitness and said:"He is a talent with great quality, one of the best in Italy.
"He is determined, hungry and made a thousand sacrifices to be here and in the running for the World Cup."
Italy's provisional 30-man squad needs to be cut down to 23 players, with players such as Mario Balotelli, Ciro Immobile and Alessio Cerci, all tipped to make the cut.
However, team doctor Enrico Castellacci said on Tuesday that Saturday's friendly against Ireland in London could be crucial for Rossi.
"Clinically, he is fine but he will be evaluated during the game, and then, of course, it is up to Prandelli to decide whether or not to call him up," said Castellacci.
Rossi has proved to be a prolific striker for Fiorentina, scoring 17 goals in the 2013/2014 season despite further injury problems.
