Cesare Prandelli is expected to make four changes to his Italy side for today’s game against the Republic of Ireland as he reverts back to a more traditional 4-3-1-2 formation.
Most of Prandelli’s changes will come at the back as Ignazio Abate is expected to replace Christian Maggio on the right, while Federico Balzaretticomes will come in for Emanuele Giaccherini on the left. Andrea Barzagli, now back after injury, will step in for Juventus teammate Leonardo Bonucci.
The change in formation means that Daniele De Rossi, who used as a stopper in the first two games, will return to his more natural midfield role alongside Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio with Thiago Motta expected to play in a more advanced role.
Up front, Antonio Di Natale will replace Mario Balotelli to form a strike partnership with Antonio Cassano.
Italy probable line-up:
Buffon; Abate, Barzagli, Chiellini, Balzaretti; De Rossi, Pirlo,Marchisio; Motta; Cassano, Di Natale.