Lippi poised for Azzurri return?

World Cup-winning coach Marcello Lippi could make a shock return to the Italy set-up, although his successor Roberto Donadoni's position is not under threat despite a disappointing start to his reign.

The Azzurri suffered a friendly defeat to Croatia in Donadoni's first game in charge last month, and then were held to a 1-1 draw by Lithuania and defeated by France in their opening two Euro 2008 qualifiers.

The Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) interim President Guido Rossi has revealed contact has been made with Lippi, who resigned days after the World Cup success against France in Berlin.

"I have made him an offer and I am sure he will accept," Rossi told Il Giornale newspaper. "He would have to change his role to become a lead figure for the national team."

On the table is a newly-created position of technical co-ordinator, working alongside Donadoni and using his experience to get Italy's Euro 2008 qualifying campaign back on track. A decision and possible appointment will take place after Lippi returns from his holidays.

"As soon as he is tired of holidays, he will return to action," added Rossi. "I have heard from him a lot and met him personally. Somebody like him, who has reached the very top needs new stimuli, and I have made him an offer - he could co-ordinate everybody's work."