Lippi looks to new generation

Eight nations have gathered in Tuscany for the UEFA European Under-17 Championship final tournament that begins tomorrow, and senior Italian national coach Marcello Lippi is paying close attention to proceedings.

Local roots
Not only did Lippi make the draw for the group stage - handing the hosts a tough Group A campaign against Turkey, Belarus and England - but he was also born in Viareggio, just a short distance north of the six Tuscan venues where the games will be played. As a former youth coach himself, Lippi keeps a close interest in the sport at this level.

'Closely linked'
"I am closely linked with youth football as this is where I began my career," he told uefa.com. Indeed, his first coaching role was with the UC Sampdoria youth team in 1982 - with whom he won a tournament in Marseille - before switching to US Pontedera 1912, whose home stadium will host four games at the U17 tournament, including the final itself.

Upward trajectory
Lippi's career then took an upward trajectory, most notably through two hugely successful spells at Juventus FC and continuing with his appointment as national team coach last year. However, he maintains his scrutiny of this level of the game. He said: "Youth football is considered more and more vital in Italy, because clubs understand the value and importance of young players and try to integrate them into their squads."

U17 importance
Lippi believes this particular age group marks a crucial stage in a footballers' development. "Under-17 is real youth football," he added. "At Under-21 level these days the players already play for professional clubs. I will try to come and watch some matches during this final tournament."

Youth promotion
Anyone doubting Lippi's commitment to youth development need only look at his record since becoming coach of the Azzurri. In particular he has used friendlies as a chance to blood new players, picking a fresh-looking squad for their most recent friendly against Iceland last March.

Lippi thinking
Explaining his thinking, Lippi said: "I like to give young players the chance to play with the senior team because they do not have lots of international experience." Eighteen of his potential future charges will be getting plenty of practice over the next fortnight.