Brazil's Amauri opts to play int'l soccer for Italy

Brazilian striker Amauri has confirmed that he has opted to play his international football for Italy, and will be available for selection for the 2010 World Cup campaign.

The Brazilian-born star is undoubtedly one of the best strikers in Serie A, and has been waiting for an Italian passport for several months now.

As the 27-year-old has never been capped by Brazil, this leaves him eligible to play for the Azzurri once he obtains his Italian nationality.

Amauri, who has recently joined Juventus from Palermo, will obtain his passport before next season, and he has now confirmed that he has chosen to represent the Azzurri.

"It is a shame, as I think I did well and deserved [Brazil Coach] Dunga's consideration," said Amauri. "I cannot wait for bureaucracy to run its course. It is true, I gave my priority to the Seleção before, but I am also proud to represent Italy.

"Donadoni said wonderful things about me, whereas I never heard from Dunga. Brazil remains a dream, while Italy is a fantastic reality and I would have loved to play in Euro 2008. I think if my passport had come through a month ago, the coach would've called me."

Amauri also spoke of his aim to play for Italy at the 2010 World Cup, and declared his support for the Azzurri ahead of Monday's Euro 2008 opener with Holland.

"I hope to play the World Cup in South Africa. Luca Toni and myself wouldn't make a bad pairing," he stated. "Am I cheering on Italy in the European Championship? Of course! I hope Alessandro Del Piero or Toni can win the top scorer title, too."