ROME : Italy received a welcome World Cup boost with the news that defenders Gianluca Zambrotta and Alessandro Nesta were both recovering well from their injuries.

Italy's medics have ruled Zambrotta out of the team's opening match against Ghana in Hannover on June 12, but the versatile Juventus full-back said he could be fit in time to face the United States five days later.

"I'm happy," said the 29-year-old, who can play on the left or right-hand side of defence, and is also comfortable in a midfield role.

"Most probably I'll be ready for the United States."
Italy coach Marcello Lippi was worried Zambrotta may miss out altogether and put reserve Daniele Bonera of Parma on stand-by.

AC Milan central defender Nesta is still suffering from a muscular problem which he picked up in the 0-0 friendly draw against the Ukraine last Friday, but said he was hopeful of starting against the Ghanaians.

Asked if he would ready for the opening match, Nesta replied: "I hope so."

Both Zambrotta and Nesta will undergo scans in Germany on Saturday. If the results are negative, Lippi will still have enough time to make a squad change before the FIFA deadline.

Italy fly out to Germany on Wednesday and will be based in the western city of Duisburg, situated in the heart of the industrial Ruhr area.

They will use the facilities of MSV Duisburg, who were relegated from the Bundesliga this season.

Italy's final Group E match is against the Czech Republic on June 22.