Dunga and Lippi increase pressure on Amauri

Jonathan Roorda - 20 July 2008 21:21

Amauri, here for Palermo

ROME (SW) - Brazilian born Amauri will have to take a decision on where to play his international matches. The player could represent both Brazil and Italy, and both coaches expect an answer soon.

Amauri (28) is about to be given the Italian nationality, and hasn't played for the Brazilian team yet. This gives him the option to make his own choice.

Pressure is mounting from both countries. Brazil's Dunga criticized the player for his failure to decide: "For a lot of players it's an honour to represent your country, but for Amauri that's different, apparently."

And Lippi, who recently re-took the reigns at the Italian national team, agrees with his colleague: "I don't like players that don't know what they want. If he would choose Italy after waiting so long, it would seem like a second choice. That should never happen.

"Playing for the national team is an honour and should never be a second choice. I want him to choose soon. If he'll pick us, at least I won't be disappointed."