KRAKOW, Poland -- Defender Andrea Barzagli will stay on Italy's European Championship squad despite a calf injury, with the hope he can return for the third Group C match against Ireland.

Team doctor Enrico Castellacci says that medical tests Friday showed the injury is healing, although Barzagli is still ruled out for the opening two matches in Group C with defending and world champion Spain on Sunday and Croatia on Thursday.

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli called up Cagliari defender Davide Astori as a possible replacement before Sunday's game with Spain.

Teams have up to 24 hours before their opening matches to replace injured players.