Barzagli's EURO participation in doubt

Italy defender Andrea Barzagli will miss the group stage after being sidelined for 20 days with a calf strain; a decision on whether he will stay with the squad will be taken this week.Italy defender Andrea Barzagli is facing a battle to play any part at UEFA EURO 2012 after picking up a calf strain.

The 31-year-old sustained the injury in Friday's 3-0 friendly loss to Russia. Azzurri team doctor Enrico Castellacci said Barzagli, capped 29 times by his country, would be unavailable for up to 20 days.

The centre-back, who won the Scudetto with Juventus this season, is therefore likely to miss the entire group stage. His condition will be monitored until Friday, when – subject to approval from UEFA – Italy coach Cesare Prandelli will make a decision on whether to replace him or not.

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