Conte says Italian football in danger of decline

(ANSA) - Genoa, November 18 - Italy coach Antonio Conte on Tuesday warned that Italian soccer is going in the wrong way and blasted the work ethic of Italian players. The former Juventus boss also said he did not have the time or inclination to try to reform talented-yet-temperamental forward Mario Balotelli.
    "Italian soccer is not going in the right direction," Conte told RAI television ahead of his side's friendly against Albania in Genoa later on Tuesday. "We have to realise this and then go from words to deeds.
    "The players have to rediscover the desire to work hard or this is only the start of a decline...In general, I expected more participation from everyone".
    Conte took over the national team in the summer after Cesare Prandelli quit following the Azzurri's poor showing at the World Cup in Brazil.
    Italy won their first four games under Conte, but were lucky to get a draw in Sunday's Euro 2016 qualifier against Croatia, who outplayed the four-time world champions in Milan.
    Italian clubs have also struggled in European competition in recent years and the game is dogged by hooliganism, racism and poor facilities. Conte added that he would not attempt what many other coaches have failed to do - change Balotelli's rebellious attitude. "I'm not so presumptuous as to consider myself different to other great coaches," Conte told State broadcaster RAI. "The past tells us that they didn't manage to change Balotelli. "It'll be up to the player. I don't have the time and that's what's needed for some things". The 24-year-old's career has been hit by indiscipline, rows with officials, coaches and teammates and some bizarre off-field incidents.
    He has come under heavy fire in the British media for his poor form and alleged lack of desire since joining Liverpool from AC Milan in the closed season.