Inter Milan Star Defender Set To Feature In Italy Vs Northern Ireland FIFA World Cup Playoff Tie | OneFootball

Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni will reportedly be in contention for the upcoming clash between Italy and Northern Ireland. 

According to Gazzetta dello Sport via FCInter1908, the 26-year-old is on the verge of overcoming a minor knee injury.

Cristian Chivu was unable to call upon his standout center-back in the last two Serie A matches.

Indeed, Alessandro Bastoni suffered a knee injury during the Milan derby after a nasty collision with French midfielder Adrien Rabiot.

As a result, he had to skip Inter’s pair of draws against Fiorentina and Atalanta, with Carlos Augusto taking his place at the back.

Inter Milan Ace Alessandro Bastoni to Feature in Italy vs Northern Ireland

Despite his recent off-field turmoil, Bastoni remains one of the most important players for Gennaro Gattuso.

With Italy vying for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the former Atalanta man is eager to help his nation return to the grandest stage.

Indeed, the Azzurri have failed to qualify for the last two editions of the most prominent international tournament.

Therefore, they’re facing tremendous pressure to end this drought.

However, they cannot afford to underestimate Northern Ireland ahead of Thursday’s high-stakes playoff tie at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo.