Emanuele Giaccherini determined to earn Italy return

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 13 June 2014

Sunderland midfielder Emmanuele Giaccherini reveals that he is keen to earn a quick return to the Italy squad after being dropped for the World Cup finals in Brazil.

Sunderland midfielder Emanuele Giaccherini has insisted that he doesn't hold any grudge against Italy coach Cesare Prandelli after being dropped from the national team for the World Cup finals.

Giaccherini was one of seven players culled from Prandelli's 30-man preliminary squad, despite featuring regularly during Italy's qualification campaign, but the former Juventus man has revealed that the exclusion has made him determined to secure a return to the side in the future.

The 29-year-old told the Northern Echo: "I was getting called up into the national team until March. It's normal that I expected to be in Prandelli's squad, but the boss made his assessments and I always thank him for what he has done for me.

"I'm a bit disappointed because everyone wants to play in the World Cup but even though I won't be on the pitch, I will cheer for Italy and always support the Azzurri.

"I hope to get back into the national team. For me, it's an honour."

Despite making just 24 appearances in the Premier League last season, Giaccherini has stated that he has no intention of leaving the Stadium of Light.