There are media reports that the Stadio San Nicola venue for Wednesday’s World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland will be hostile after hometown hero Cassano was left out of the squad.

“There’s no need for me to launch an appeal to anyone,” insisted Abete when asked if he wanted to send a message to the Puglia crowd.

“The San Nicola will be packed out, just as it was in 2007 for another decisive qualifier against Scotland.

“I am certain Bari will give us a warm welcome regardless of what has been said during the week.”

Abete was in the stands for last night’s 2-0 victory in Montenegro, a result that puts Italy two points clear at the top of Group 8.

“[Marcello] Lippi’s work must be respected and we are absolutely satisfied with how he is doing. This game again proved there are no easy tests at this level any more.”

There was some bad news during the match, as Antonio Di Natale was stretchered off with a potentially serious knee injury and will undergo tests later today.

“We already had nine players out injured and now we have to add another to the list,” mused the Federation chief.

Mon 0-2 Ita: Pazzini conquers Podgorica
Andrea Pirlo's penalty and a header from debutant Giampaolo Pazzini gave Italy a precious 2-0 win away to Montenegro. More and Highlights

Lippi only half-happy
Marcello Lippi feels the second half performance made the difference in Montenegro and looks ahead to Ireland with a two-point advantage. More

Pazzini: My magic moment
Giampaolo Pazzini admits “I can't quite believe it” after scoring on his senior international debut. More

Pirlo explains cheeky spot-kick
Andrea Pirlo explains why he decided to cheekily chip a decisive penalty away to Montenegro and looks forward to facing Giovanni Trapattoni. More

Toto awaits test results
Antonio Di Natale confirms he is afraid the knee injury sustained on international duty is serious. More