Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli has been sent home from the Italy squad for the games against Croatia and Albania after suffering muscular problems.
The Azzurri face Croatia in a Euro 2016 qualifier at Milan's San Siro stadium on on Sunday before heading to Genoa to take on Albania in a friendly on Tuesday evening.
However, Balotelli, who had been diagnosed with a minor hamstring strain has been sent back to his club for treatment on adductor strain and slight lumbago.
Juventus defender Angelo Ogbonna has also been sent home and, with Leonardo Bonucci already suspended against Croatia, Italy coach Antonio Conte has a defensive crisis on his hands.
Balotelli and Ogbonna leave Italy training camp with minor hamstring issues. Shame for Balotelli. Chance to impress Conte interrupted.
- James Horncastle (@JamesHorncastle) November 15, 2014