Bayern Munich striker Luca Toni hit back at the critics who panned him of late and called on Italy coach Marcello Lippi to leave him out of the squad. The former Fiorentina star put in below-par performances in the FIFA Confederations Cup with the Azzurri, who failed to go past the group stage. Toni had an injury-hit season that abysmally affected him, and reports suggested that his dip in form could well put an end to his international career. Furthermore, Bayern have brought in Ivica Olic and Mario Gomez to beef up their attack, and the towering hitman is tipped to fall down the pecking order at Allianz Arena. But Toni gave himself some credit by pointing out to his glorious days, saying the pundits have no right to come down on him that hard. "For five-six years, I have netted more goals than anyone and I was Bayern's top scorer last season," the 32-year-old told La Gazzetta dello Sport. "But if I go through an average spell from time to time, I soon become a problem and get a lot of stick. I don't think it's fair." Toni is also adamant that he will retain his status as a Bayern key figure. "Bayern have built a stronger squad and it's important to be part of it," he added. "I suffered two injuries that split my season in half. I stopped for 20 days before the Confederations Cup and I paid the price."
