Rossi thrilled with Italy return

Posted Thursday, October 10, 2013 by YAHOO Sport

Giuseppe Rossi says he is elated with his call-up to the Italy national team after a lengthy two-year absence.

The 26-year-old, who is in the squad to face Denmark and Armenia, last featured for Cesare Prandelli in October of 2011, playing in a 1-1 draw in a European Championship 2012 qualifier against Serbia.

Rossi has been capped 27 times by Italy, but this time feels extra special for the striker, who is thrilled his performances this season have not gone unnoticed.

“I am happy and proud to wear the Azzurri shirt and return to the team,” he told Viola Channel.

“I thank coach Prandelli for the call and I will do everything to repay his confidence on the field.”

The American-born forward has scored six goals in nine games in all competitions for Fiorentina this season, after missing over a year and a half of action following surgery on a ruptured cruciate ligament.

Italy have already qualified from Group B and coach Prandelli may give this opportunity to test out some of his fringe players with next year's World Cup on the horizon.

Prandelli admits Rossi’s comeback has caught his attention and his inclusion is a sign of hard work paying off.

“We do not want to risk anything, but he is a guy who has experienced two difficult years and is now returning to important levels," he told reporters.

“I called to make him feel part of this group and to evaluate his physical condition before using him.”