Italy coach Marcello Lippi decided to exclude left back Fabio Grosso from his squad for the imminent World Cup. The 32-year-old was integral part of the Azzuri's winning squad in the 2006 World Cup, having scored against Germany in the semi-finals and converted the last spot kick in the final penalty shootout with France. However, Grosso couldn't maintain his form over the past four years, which resulted in his omission from the quadrennial competition. "I am not making an Italy side based on debts of gratitude," Lippi commented on his decision.