Lippi under pressure to reform

Italy's dismal performances in the Confederations Cup have added ballast to the arguments of his Marcelo Lippi's detractors and the manager is coming under increasing pressure in his homeland to freshen things up.

The world cup winning coach has largely kept faith with the squad that won the trophy in Germany three years ago but, despite being top of their qualifying group ahead of the Republic of Ireland and Bulgaria, defeats to Egypt and Brazil and a fortunate win over the USA have left many unconvinced this Azzurri team has the legs to defend its title in South Africa next year.

A 3-0 beating at the hands of Brazil last night, saw Lippi and co dumped out of the competition – also being staged in South Africa - and allowed the USA progress after they beat Egypt by the same scoreline.

The latter had already beaten an Italian side that featured eight world champions 1-0, on a night when the Azzurri lacked ideas and looked fragile in defence. Against Brazil, they were completely outplayed and were three goals down by halftime, thanks to a Luis Fabiano brace and an Andrea Dossena own goal.

"The hope is that this lesson serves (to spur) Lippi to return to South Africa in a year's time with another team," wrote La Gazzetta dello Sporttoday, in an article headlined "Floored".

"There is time to rebuild a team capable of defending the world title. It is necessary to accelerate the introduction of some youngsters, even though not all of the World Cup winners should retire."

Lippi anticipated calls for revamping the team, saying immediately after the elimination that it was necessary to gradually bring in younger players.

However, Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon said he did not see many youngsters in Serie A who could do better than the old guard.

Some argued not all of the alternatives to the 2006 squad were baby-faced.

"There is a great movement that offers dozens of players, young and old," wrote Mario Sconcerti in Corriere della Sera. "The important thing is that they are assessed without prejudice."

Lippi, it is argued, has his favourites and is reluctant to introduce new faces for fear of disrupting the squad dynamic.

After what can only be described as an embarrassing showing on the turf he will defend his title on next year, the manager may finally have to at least compromise on his philosophy.