Antonio Di Natale is certain that his future lies with Udinese and the Friulani will take part in next season’s UEFA Cup after receiving a license.
Azzurri marksman Di Natale has become a talismanic figure in Udine and is hoping that his 17-goal haul will prove enough to earn him a place in Roberto Donadoni’s squad for Euro 2008.
While Roma have been repeatedly linked with a summer swoop for the 30-year-old, he insists that he isn’t looking for a move.
“I have a good relationship with President Giampaolo Pozzo,” Di Natale said.
“I am under contract until 2012 and we will sit down at a table and discuss things, but I am happy here.”
In recent seasons many of Udinese’s stars have left for bigger clubs and the Zebrette have often been written off as a springboard.
“They are personal choices,” Di Natale stressed. “It’s obvious that when you go to a big team you have to show your ability and that is difficult when you are amongst champions.
“However, Vincenzo Iaquinta has done well in Turin and knew how to be ready to meet the demands.”
With just 90 minutes left to play against Milan this weekend, Di Natale could be forgiven for taking it easy to avoid injury, but the thought hasn’t crossed his mind.
“I am focused on doing what the boss tells me to,” he insisted.
“I’m giving everything also because I know very well that if you go out on the pitch tentatively then you risk injury.”
Meanwhile, there was relief in the Udinese camp as the side were granted a UEFA license after appeal.
There had been a chance that the Friulani could miss out on next season’s UEFA Cup when they were adjudged to be lacking the necessary resources to host European games, but the decision has now been reversed.
