Bonucci missing international football

Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci says he misses not being directly involved in the Italian national team.

The 24-year-old had been a regular face in Cesare Prandelli’s sides but has seen his game time diminish of late, and his latest no-show in Italy’s 24-man squad has prompted the centre-back to voice his disappointment.

“There is some bitterness at not being called up to the squad, but I’m still part of their plans,” Bonucci told Sky Sport Italia.

“In football you should never take anything for granted.”

Bonucci has promised to carry on ploughing all of his efforts into returning for Italy, before praising fellow defender Angelo Ogbonna, who made his debut for the four-time world champions against Poland on Friday.

“I think about just working hard and putting myself back in contention as one of the centre-backs,” Bonucci said.

“Ogbonna’s debut with the Azzurri? I know Angelo well, we often hang out in Turin. He’s a very good guy and deserves all the attention he is getting.”

Italy will take to the field against Uruguay on Tuesday at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico.