Giuseppe Rossi hits out at Italy snub for World Cup

Giuseppe Rossi has expressed his frustration at being left out of the Italy squad for this summer's World Cup.

The 27-year-old, who scored 16 goals for Fiorentina last season, failed to make the cut for the Azzurri when their final 23-man party was announced on Sunday.

Concerns over Rossi's fitness are thought to be behind his omission following a serious knee injury last term, but the forward believes that he is ready for action after appearing for Italy during their goalless draw with the Republic of Ireland on Saturday.

He tweeted: "Everyone says out of shape but you can ask anyone regarding the results of [physical tests] done during the week and [against Ireland]. One would be surprised. Fear of contact? It makes me laugh...

"I am faster in thinking than a defender. Perhaps next time, like an amateur, I wait for the defender in order to be kicked."

Rossi has scored seven goals in 30 appearances for the Italian national team.