Breaking Down The Squad: RB

In the run up to the European championships we’re going to be taking a look at each of the positions and all the potential scallywags which might be taken on the field trip to Swissaustria. There’s no telling who The Don Doni will pick, so we’re casting out net far and wide. First up is RB. I was going to start with keeper, but that one’s relatively self-explanatory, and we’lll save when I’m busy and can only afford the time to put up a big mural with Gigi saying “as Gigi goes, the Azzurri go.”

RB is one of the trickier positions because of the versatility of Gianluca Zambrotta. So not only are these guys fighting against each other, they’re fighting against the southpaws as well. That won’t deter them from being called up, but it can significant impact their playing time if, say, Fabio Grosso starts channeling his German self of Giorgio Chiellini suddenly has a spurt of growth. So you could basically lump those two positions together as Zambro & Friends. Then, of course, there’s Zambro’s penchant for getting injured right around Azzurri call-up time. If he were a kid you’d think he’s holding the thermometer under the lamp on test days. Who knows.

The Incumbent(s).:

Massimo Oddo (Milan): This spot was Massimo’s to lose, and he may very well have lost it. While Space Balls was crossing balls towards Jupiter’s 7th moon, Christian Panucci was scoring game-winning heading in the hostile territories of Hampden Park, looking pretty solid otherwise, as well. Oddo is a solid player, but his best asset, the ability to get way down tha right flank is negated because it usually ends up as nothing more than a goal kick. Still, he does play for Milan and we all know how Donadoni loves his Milanisti. Solid option, and I’d venture to guess Oddo’s ticket is pre-booked.

Christian Panucci (Roma): Old Man River has enjoyed a resurgence of massive proportions, both on an off the field (he’s been dating some quality WAGs). While he’ll provide the occasional spectacular moment, it’s his solid play with rare miscues and intelligent use of experience which has spearheaded his Azzurri return. Right now it appears he may even be first choice, and is at least a platoon member with Oddo. How well his 83 year old body holds up after a full Serie A campaign is another matter. Wait and see.

The Surprise.:

Marco Cassetti (Roma): In case you hadn’t noticed, or are chromosomally challenged, I’m a Roma fan (you know, Roma…Chris). So while this may look like bias, I can assure you it’s not, because even I can’t believe I’m typing this. Marco Cassetti has looked….awesome….for much of this year, and has been one of the consistently great Romans of the campaign. Yes, that’s right, Marco Cassetti. And he actually has a couple caps already.

I’ve always seen Marco as somewhat of a tweener. His defensive skills aren’t that wonderful for a RB, and he doesn’t exactly have the attacking ability of a world class winger. But this year he’s looked pretty damn alright at both positions, and while he still isn’t a lock down defender, he adds an exceptional bit of attacking class to tht RB spot. His pace, work rate and Roma-esque passcrossing have been a huge boon to the squad (outside of his foot is very underrated). Not to mention his versaility, enabling him to provide all of that from multiple spots on the field.

As strange as it would have been to say this even 4 months ago, based on form, Marco could very well be in consideration for a starting spot in Swissaustria. I’d expect he’ll at least see some trials during the friendlies in the spring. Who knew?

The Black Sheep.:

Cristian Zaccardo (Palermo): Z has all the skillz in the world, but still looks to be lacking It (you know, that inexplicable thing which turns great talents into great players). The goal against the US really didn’t help, especially when the Azzurri should’ve waltzed through that game despite losing DDR..Hasn’t exactly done anything outstanding to make up for it, but he still does have talent. And any time that fits into the equation, all hope is not lost.

The Dark Horsies.:

Giandomenico Mesto (Udinese): It isn’t a fresh name on the scene, and it has been a little while, but the kid is only 25 years old and has looked very very good up in Udine this season, playing as more of a right wingback/winger than an out-and-out RB. And that may very well help him. His versatility is huge and may get his foot a little further into the door, especially with the paucity of quality wingers at the Azzurri’s disposal. And with Mauro Camoranesi doing his damndest to get injured as often as possible after his new, bloated contract, his chances that much better.

Gianluca Comotto (Torino): Usually being uncapped at 29 isn’t a good thing, but Gianluca is one of the more underrated defenders in Serie A, on both sides of the ball. Has sort of a sneaky offensive presence, and brings a solid, defensive presence to the back ine. Being club captain never hurts either. While it might be a little bit of a surprise, it wouldn’t be shocking.

The “Not Yets”.:

Andrea Raggi & Marco Motta: Still some ways away.

At this very moment, it’s hard to argue against Panucci and Oddo being called up to Swissaustria, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see Cassetti earn a spot or a guy like Mesto brought on as a versatile option.