Lippi says Totti exclusion is not punishment
(Agencies)
Updated: 2005-05-31 22:51

Italy coach Marcello Lippi said Tuesday that his decision to leave Francesco Totti off the national team's roster was not a form of punishment.

``I didn't receive any pressure from the federation. My choice is not a form of punishment,'' Lippi said. ``I spoke with him Thursday and explained the reasons and he understood. I had in mind a certain Italy, the choice is technical but there are also other reasons which I don't need to explain.''

Italy plays a World Cup qualifier in Norway on Saturday, and Lippi has declared the game to be ``key.''

Totti, who received a three-match ban for spitting at an opponent in the European Championship, is coming off a five-match ban for punching an opponent in league play.

He has played only three times since April 20. Local reports suggested that his upcoming marriage to TV showgirl Ilary Blasi on June 19 may have also played a role in his exclusion.

Lippi also left off Juventus captain Alessandro Del Piero, and Parma striker Alberto Gilardino was removed from the team Monday with a leg injury, likely leaving the attack to Antonio Cassano and Christian Vieri or Luca Toni.

``Italy is not only Totti,'' Lippi said. ``I realize he's one of the best players in Europe. It can be that for one game out of 30 I don't call him up. Totti will become important and decisive again in September.''

Italy leads Group 5 of European qualifying with 12 points. Norway and Slovenia are tied for second with eight points each.

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