Sarri clarifies derby boycott threat was only provocation

Roma midfielder Bryan Cristante has been left out of Italy coach Roberto Mancini's 31-man squad for the Nations League matches against France and Belgium, despite a strong start to the season with Roma. Mancini addressed the decision at a press conference today at Coverciano, where the squad is gathering. Mancini said: "We know Cristante, there is no need to prove him. When we need him, we will call him." He stressed that the decision was not technical. Instead, he said, it was aimed at giving more room to young players who will have the chance to show what they can do in the senior national team shirt. Two Roma players have been called up: Daniele Ghilardi and Niccolò Pisilli.

Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernandez has made clear that Roma forward Donyell Malen is, in his view, a centre-forward, even though he can also be used on the right. Malen has been recalled to the Dutch squad after missing the nation's most recent fixtures through injury. Speaking at a press conference, Xavi said: "For me Malen is a centre-forward. Of course, he is an option on the right, but he feels more comfortable playing as a striker." The comments appear to settle any doubt about the Dutchman's role. His predecessor Koeman often used him as a right winger, the same position he occupied during his time at Aston Villa. Since arriving in the capital, however, Gian Piero Gasperini has deployed him at the heart of the attack, producing thrilling results and convincing Xavi, the former Barcelona midfielder, of his value in that role. Xavi added: "The best thing we can do is give him confidence. Explain to him what we expect from him as a centre-forward. He knows how to attack the spaces, he understands what is asked of him. He recognises the right moment to be involved in the play. I think he can give the best of himself with the Oranje." Having won over Rome, Malen now wants to make his mark on the national team as well.

Italy coach Roberto Mancini has explained why Roma midfielder Bryan Cristante was left out of his squad, saying he already knows the player well and does not need to test him. Speaking at a press conference at Coverciano before the official start of Nazionale training, Mancini addressed several aspects of the call-ups, including Cristante's absence from the list. Mancini said: "Cristante lo conosciamo, non c'è bisogno di provarlo. Quando ne avremo bisogno lo chiameremo." In English: "We know Cristante, there is no need to try him out. When we need him, we will call him." The coach made clear these were the reasons behind leaving the Roma midfielder out. The decision means Cristante will remain with Roma during the international break. Gian Piero Gasperini will be pleased to have the number 4 available for the club's training and preparation during the pause.