Italy's team doctor has revealed that defender Andrea Barzagli is close to full fitness.
Enrico Castellacci also claimed that the Juventus man could feature in Italy's final Group C game against Ireland on Monday.
The 31-year-old had been expected to miss all the Euro 2012 group stage, but has recovered from a calf injury that he suffered at the beginning of June.
"Andrea is doing well and we are satisfied with his condition," said Castellacci.
"He will not be ready for Thursday's game [against Croatia], but we already knew that.
"Our aim is to have him fit in order to be available for selection for the game against Ireland. We hope we can do that as things are going better than planned."
Barzagli has earned 29 caps for the Azzurri since making his debut in 2004.
