Giorgio Chiellini calls for calm in wake of Antonio Conte death threats

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 29 March 2015

Giorgio Chiellini wants to see Italy supporters put their differences with Antonio Conte aside for the greater good of the national side going forward.

Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini has called for calm from supporters after manager Antonio Conte was on the receiving end of a number of death threats.

The 45-year-old has come in for criticism from Juventus fans due to an injury picked up by Claudio Marchisio while on international duty with the Azzurri, which is expected to see him ruled out of action until the start of next season.

Conte is said to have been left "shaken" by the intimidating remarks, but Chiellini has now stepped in to try to diffuse the situation before it escalates any further.

"Let's all appeal that any 'afters' from the last few years be put aside for the common good of Italian football," he is quoted as saying by Tribal Football.

"In club football we have seen improvements already and it's an important step that we can get closer to England in the rankings for next year.

"Now this Nazionale represents the country and ought to be treated as such. I am sure the welcome will be good in Turin. We can't wait to get out there."

Italy, who were held to a 2-2 draw by Bulgaria on Saturday night, return to action on Tuesday when they play host to England.