The Defenders:
Undeniably the best defence in the World Cup of 2006 with only two goals conceded: an own goal and a rather controversial penalty, the Azzurri are usually known for their perfection in holding their own against attacking opponents. However; times at late have proven to be different as opponents have been able to find chances at goal more easily than before.
They were worrying in last year's Confederations Cup where goals were easy to come by for the opposition, bringing about calls for a possible return of Alessandro Nesta to come out of retirement.
It even went as far as Lippi asking the Milanista to consider returning to the national set-up but the ex-Lazio captain didn't feel that his body could handle it. After returning to the rossoneri first team Nesta found himself playing the best football he had played in years forming an unbreakable partnership with Thiago Silva. An injury to his knee in January confirmed that the rossonero would not play for the Azzurri.
Without Nesta nor Legrottaglie concerns have been raised about Lippi's defence and sceptics remain unconvinced about the defence which sees the young Bari sensation Leonardo Bonnucci chosen alongside with Genoa's Salvatore Bocchetti.
It is a mixture of young and old, the inexperienced and the experienced each out to prove a point.
THE DEFENDERS:
They were worrying in last year's Confederations Cup where goals were easy to come by for the opposition, bringing about calls for a possible return of Alessandro Nesta to come out of retirement.
It even went as far as Lippi asking the Milanista to consider returning to the national set-up but the ex-Lazio captain didn't feel that his body could handle it. After returning to the rossoneri first team Nesta found himself playing the best football he had played in years forming an unbreakable partnership with Thiago Silva. An injury to his knee in January confirmed that the rossonero would not play for the Azzurri.
Without Nesta nor Legrottaglie concerns have been raised about Lippi's defence and sceptics remain unconvinced about the defence which sees the young Bari sensation Leonardo Bonnucci chosen alongside with Genoa's Salvatore Bocchetti.
It is a mixture of young and old, the inexperienced and the experienced each out to prove a point.
THE DEFENDERS:
Salvatore Bocchetti
Leonardo Bonnucci 
Mattia Cassani
Cristian Maggio 
The Genoa centre-back is one of the most inexperienced players included in Lippi's side. With just three International caps to his name, the defender might be considered too raw to be chosen to play at a World Cup just yet. With undeniable talent and an impressive season under his belt with the Grifoni he will certainly provide Lippi with a tough decision of whether to keep him or not.
Leonardo Bonnucci Bari's sensation this season which has seen him form a fascinating partnership with Andrea Ranocchia in the centre of defence. With a strong, composed and effective style of play it is no wonder that he helped Bari have one of the best defensive record at the first half of the season. With just one international cap to his name Bonnucci- like Bocchetti- also remains inexperienced. It is the time he spends at the training camp that will help Lippi decide on whether he should be chosen or not.
Fabio Cannavaro No introduction is needed here. Fabio Cannavaro. The Captain. Most capped international Italian player. Enough said? Not really!
Undeniably the strongest and most dominant Italian defender chosen, the captain, however; hasn't seen the best of seasons in recent years and it is no wonder that he is set to retire from international football at the end of the World Cup. Despite this, if there is one man who can raise to an occasion it is the Juventus player and there is no doubt he will be throwing himself into tackles, running in to the box for corners and bossing the players around. Hopefully the Legend can bow out on a high.
Undeniably the strongest and most dominant Italian defender chosen, the captain, however; hasn't seen the best of seasons in recent years and it is no wonder that he is set to retire from international football at the end of the World Cup. Despite this, if there is one man who can raise to an occasion it is the Juventus player and there is no doubt he will be throwing himself into tackles, running in to the box for corners and bossing the players around. Hopefully the Legend can bow out on a high.
Mattia CassaniRelatively unknown to the world outside of Serie A this late bloomer has made just one appearance for the Azzurri at the age of 26. He is most famous for his late goal in a 3-2 win against Juventus which ended his club's, Palermo's, string of four consecutive losses. Working his way to being a fans favourite this year Cassani has made a name for himself and will undoubtedly feature more in the International set-up even if he doesn't get selected for South Africa.
Giorgio ChielliniThis centre back has risen to the occassion over the past few years and has undoubtedly earned himself a much deserved spot to South Africa. A colossal presence in the backline Chiellini is ready to take over the reigns, in running the backline, when Cannavaro retires from international football. Strong and fierce he is a warrior on the field and will stop at nothing to get a 50/50 ball.
Domenico Criscito
Domenico CriscitoAlong with Zambrotta, Crisicito offers versatility. Able to play in the centre and as a right-back he will no doubt be making the trip to South Africa. Fast, agile and precise the 23-year-old has 5 caps to his name. He was a dominant and powerful figure for the under 21 side and deservedly earned his call-up by Lippi in last years Confederations cup. It should be him and Grosso blessing the flanks in defence.
Fabio Grosso
The hero of 2006 has worked his way back into the international frame of things. Following disappointing spells at Inter and Lyon Grosso has found himself back at Juventus and relishing his next World Cup. Guaranteed a spot, Lippi always seems to have faith in him regardless of his situation, Grosso will be ready to run up the flanks. A steady and consistent left-back he should be starting ahead of Zambrotta.
Cristian Maggio Used as a right- wing midfielder for his club Napoli, Lippi has opted to include him in the squad as a potential right-back. Reliable for his club he is a risk Lippi might opt for. Proven that he is by far a better right winger the tactician can use him as an attacking right back or if needed; in the midfield.
Gianluca Zambrotta Probably the most inconsistent season of his in recent years, the versatile defender found himself often on the bench for the rossoneri as unstable performances left few impressed. Able to play in both right and left back positions Zambrotta possess a talent that few in the international set-up contain. It is for this reason that Lippi has chosen Zambrotta and will most likely keep him in the squad.
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