The Midfielders:

This area is where it all happens, in the centre of the field most balls are won or lost. The tempo of the game is created and maintained here while the build-up to a fantastic goal all starts at the centre.

Should a teams midfield fail to hold it's own more pressure is put on the goalkeepers, thus is it vitally important that Lippi has all his midfielders fighting fit. They are the hardest workers on the field and the run the most, tracking back to defend and running up to attack.

The Azzuri's midfield in 2006 was one of the best, Pirlo was played in such a position that he was able to roam free between the defence and the midfield allowing for long balls and crosses to come in. If structured correctly and the players are fully fit this midfield could take the Italians far.

THE MIDFIELDERS:

Mauro Camoranesi

Possibly past his sell-by date? The Goat, as he is known to Juventus fans, has a lot of pressure to deliver the goods should he make the squad. With fears that he was only chosen as part of Lippi's old-guard Camoranesi has a lot of work to do. Nevertheless, the Argentina-born player has always managed to pop up when things go rough so his spot is probably guaranteed.

Antonio Candreva

With just two caps to his name the Juventus central-midfielder will be out to prove a point to Lippi in hope of being selected. Competing with names like De Rossi, Pirlo and Montolivo Candreva will find it tough to be chosen. Deserved of a call-up a may not be his time to shine, though he will definitely feature as a dominant force in the next major tournament.

Andrea Cossu

The least known player chosen by Lippi in the midfield, the Cagliari attacking midfielder has just completed his best season in football. Cossu scored four goals this season and has impressed everyone with his consistent play. If selected for the final 23-man squad this player-makers skills could prove vital, sadly however; it is unlikely that the 30-year old will be chosen.

Daniele De Rossi

It is his chance to shine! Following his disappointing World Cup campaign in 2006, which saw him suspended for four games in the tournament for elbowing Brian McBride, this year is De Rossi's year. A vital player in the midfield, Roma's future captain has had a fantastic season with the gialloross and is proving to be getting better and better. With the potential to carry this team far, a lot rests on the Roman's shoulders but it is nothing that this hard-working midfielder can't take. Expect precise passes, long shots and hard tackles from this man.

Gennaro Gattuso

Is Lippi sticking to his same old-guard? This season was by far Gattuso's worst season in his career. With injuries and falling out of favour with the coach a certain element of doubt remains of whether the fighting bull dog should make the trip or not. It seems as though Lippi has chosen him rather on his past credentials and his ability to spur the team on in tough times, rather than looking at his current form. Gattuso can lift his game when needed but perhaps time has come for someone else to take over the fighting position...

Claudio Marchisio

In football versatility in a player always seems to win and this could be one key characteristic that could see the Juventus player chosen for the final squad. Versatile, hard-tackling with no fear to take long powerful shots this youngster has a lot going for him. A World Cup stage could prove vital for his career, with a possibility to see him outshine some of the older more experienced players. He gave his fellow teammate Mauro Camoranesi a run for his money this season and may just see him do so again in order to grab that ticket to South Africa.

Riccardo Montolivo

The Viola's captain has already got a spot guaranteed to go to the World Cup with Lippi openly expressing his vision of the team with Monotolivo as a key figure. This creative, consistent midfielder adds depth to the squad and possesses the ability to take a wasted opportunity and turn it into something beautiful. Should Pirlo fail to deliver Bergamo-born player will certainly step in with both feet.

Angelo Palombo

This is one player that should leave Gattuso weary of his chances of going to the World Cup. With Gattuso's below par performance this season Palombo has a huge chance of taking his spot. The Sampdoria midfielder is a hard, tenacious and fierce midfielder who dives into any tackle possible with accuracy and force. His non-stop working ethic will prove vital for the squad as legs grow tired. A complete package, Sampdoria's longest serving player is deserved of a shot next month.

Simone Pepe

Tall, strong and quick Pepe's pace and finishing skills will prove vital for the World Champions. With 13 international caps to his name the Udinese player is establishing a name for himself in the Italia shirt. His versatility to be used as a right-winger or forward provides Lippi with more depth and a chance to change formations during the game. It will be no surprise if this 26-year old finds his name in lights in June.

Andrea Pirlo

The best midfielder in the last World Cup, Andrea Pirlo hasn't seen the best of seasons but his ability to create nothing into a perfect assist for a goal is undeniable. Pirlo is a key figure to Lippi's set-up and should the Milan man fail to produce, a lot more work will be left on the other players. Vital in every aspect of the field his precision, calm persona and vision will be in great need in South Africa. His spot is guaranteed.