Italy coach Marcello Lippi has revealed that he will consider a number of Napoli players for La Nazionale selection as he prepares to take the Azzurri to World Cup 2010.

Lippi coached the Partenopei during the 1993-94 season before moving to Juventus where he established himself as a top coach in world football.

Napoli has always remained close to Lippi’s heart and he has tipped them for glory in this year's UEFA Cup. The coach will also consider picking some Napoli players for the Azzurri.

“I love Napoli and the feeling I have for the fans and city is well known,” Lippi told Il Roma.

“I still remember when I coached them all those years ago. It was difficult then but we still made Europe.

“I will be following Edy Reja’s team this season and you will see me at the San Paolo often as I want to watch their games. I will be in Napoli for Serie A and UEFA Cup games and I hope they really do well in both.

“Will I be there just to watch games? Obviously not. I will be there because there are a few players in the side who would deserve my considerations.

“Every Italian player between 18 and 40 can hope of receiving a call up, even [Christian] Maggio.

“I would like to congratulate the club for their efforts. The coach deserves praise as he always gives younger players a chance.”

Lippi is currently looking around for players who he believes may play a part in his Azzurri squad selection for the up and coming World Cup qualifiers. The usual suspects are expected to make the squad but a few surprises are also in store.