Italy U21: Goalkeeper forced to withdraw, new name called up

The Italy Under-21 team has lost goalkeeper Diego Mascardi, so called up Tommaso Martinelli to replace him for their European Championship qualifier.

The Azzurrini had made their debut under new coach Silvio Baldini with a 2-1 comeback victory over Montenegro on Friday.

The goals were scored by Luca Lipani and Luca Koleosho, overturning the early strike.

Italy Under-21 team give Fiorentina goalkeeper first call

Mascardi had started in goal during that match, but he has been forced to withdraw from international duty over personal matters.

With that in mind, Baldini has called in Fiorentina goalkeeper Martinelli to replace the Spezia shot-stopper in the group.

It is Martinelli’s first call-up for Italy at Under-21 level.

Italy are next up in action with a trip to North Macedonia, which will kick off on Tuesday September 9 at 17.15 UK time (16.15 GMT).

Their qualifying group for the European Under-21 Championship is completed by Sweden, Armenia and Poland.