He's back, and let's hope, BACK FOR GOOD. It's always annoying and very stupid when good players get injuries that can end their career. I thought the kid was done. I ALMOST forgot about him. But it was when I saw how Italy have been reliant on Balotelli that I remembered Rossi at the Confederations Cup. I remembered how the skill he had on the ball and just like Giovinco, the fearlessness he had in running at defenders and getting his shot off. I remembered that these boys in blue have ANOTHER great option in attack. And before you say it, NO, Gilardino is NOT an option.
With Italy about to head in against Germany, I am hoping to see an emotional return for Rossi. It will be interesting to see how Italy attack with a faster and more mobile striker. Balotelli is your lone front man, similar to Ibra in the slower way he plays, that is more measured and methodological. Rossi will give Italy more bite and zip. Not necessarily a better option, but something different which is VITAL to any coach if he wants to change things in a match not going his way. So this is precisely why it's crucial that Rossi gets back in the mix.
I may be a quiet voice that sings the praises of Giovinco. He is a very good player who I think can be an ASSET from the start for Italy. But fair enough, if they are to go with Rossi, that is good too. What I am trying to just say, whether it be Giovinco or Rossi, Italy need some alternative to Balotelli. I repeat, Gilardino is NOT an option. Neither is Osvaldo who is a better fashion hair model than a football player. So Prandelli will need to hope Rossi stays fit and has a good season for Fiorentina. Having that option to either bring Rossi on for Italy to play differently...or.....OR....if Balotelli and Rossi can form an understanding...let me tell you, that could potentially be an incredible partnership at the World Cup. I have always been and will still be a believer in the two striker approach. Once you have two strikers that can really play well off each other....then that is FAR more effective than any other system in MY own estimation.
Welcome back Rossi, and PLEASE stay free from injury and try and steal your moment. It's perfect that he is playing for an average Fiorentina side, which means he WILL always be a starter when fit. He needs to have a season where he can get back to proper sharpness. Also, with question marks around Balotelli with his issues with the horrendous Milan, Rossi may put forth an argument that he can be Italy's Baggio and DELIVER only when it matters, which has always been the style for Italian strikers.
Screw the friendlies.....DELIVER WHEN IT MATTERS.
HH
