Confident: Daniele De Rossi (right) says he wants to play, despite a persistent back injury

However, as a key man in the Azzurri ranks, coach Cesare Prandelli will want De Rossi available and the Roma man has no intention of missing out.

‘It is not a case of being a hero or a warrior,’ he said. ‘I would never give up the opportunity of playing for Italy against Germany, although I would feel the same if it was a match for Roma in the Coppa Italia.

‘OK, I have got a bad back. But I have a lot of faith in the medical people. There are a few fitness tests tomorrow but I am confident I will make it.’

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