Monday, June 23, 2008

Del Piero undecided on future

The Juventus captain, 33, was the most senior player in the national team in the game against Spain with 88 appearances.

He was a late substitute in Sunday's quarter-final which saw Italy lose on penalties following a goalless 120 minutes.

"Penalties are something else, but the important thing is that we have remained united as a group throughout this tournament," Del Piero told PA Sport.

"Now I will go on holiday and then decide what to do about my international career."

The Juve forward, who finished as the top scorer in Serie A this season, could not hide his disappointment after the Azzurri's Euro 2008 adventure was brought to an end having had limited playing time in Roberto Donadoni's side.

"We are bitter and hurt," said Del Piero. "It was a very level game and then when you lose on penalties it's always painful."

Spain won 4-2 on penalties after goalkeeper Iker Casillas saved Antonio Di Natale and Daniele De Rossi's spot-kicks.

"I think Di Natale and De Rossi did a great job on the pitch," admitted Del Piero, who did not take a penalty.

Del Piero knows what De Rossi and Di Natale are experiencing.

The finger of blame was put on the Juventus forward when he missed two goalscoring chances in Italy's 2-1 loss to France in the Euro 2000 final.

However, Del Piero bounced back and played a vital role in Italy's World Cup triumph in Germany two years ago.

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