Cassano left out of Italy squad again

Cassano, also overlooked by Prandelli for matches against Bulgaria and Malta last month, formed the striking partnership with Mario Balotelli at Euro 2012 and has been playing well for Inter Milan since joining from rivals AC Milan in the close season.

Manchester City forward Balotelli, who missed last month's games due to a minor eye operation, was recalled along with AC Milan striker Stephan El Shaaraway and Bologna's Alberto Gilardino.

Defender Domenico Criscito, dropped from Italy's Euro 2012 squad after being accused of possible involvement in match-fixing when he was at Genoa, was recalled. Prosecutors later decided there was not enough evidence to charge Criscito who now plays for Zent St Petersburg.