Alessandro Matri has refused to criticise the late inclusion of Pablo Daniel Osvaldo in the Italian national squad.

The Argentine-born striker was added to the Azzurri party on Wednesday after Mario Balotelli and Giampaolo Pazzini were ruled out of action with injury.

It was initially thought that Juventus man Matri would be selected, but boss Cesare Prandelli opted for the new Roma signing instead.

“I’m certainly disappointed to not be a part of the squad,” the former Cagliari centre-forward declared.

“However, the decision to choose Osvaldo was made by the national Coach. I’ll wait for my chance.

“There is plenty of time and I already hope to be included when the next national squad is announced.”

Matri has won two international caps to date and both have been under Prandelli. He netted on his debut in a 2-0 win over the Ukraine.

That signature is boss, hahah. Yeah well this could Motivate Matri so I don't mind him missing a game that means almost nothing for italy if it means he's determined to make the next call up.