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Vieri Will Not Play for Germany

After all the coaches of the participating teams named their 23-man teams for the 2006 World Cup it`s time for conformations. All players most undergo strict physical exams in order to qualify to play at the FIFA World Cup in Germany. Although Germany host the big soccer event, it seems that its national team is having some trouble. Italy striker Christian Vieri will miss out on the FIFA World Cup in Germany after undergoing knee surgery.

The 32-year-old AS Monaco FC forward, who has scored 23 goals in 49 internationals, has been struggling with a cartilage problem for the last month and has been forced to have an operation. Italy coach Marcello Lippi said: "I have clear ideas about the squad I will take to Germany, and a few injuries have helped me in my decisions.

Vieri has a knee injury and is not available." Lippi added that UC Sampdoria midfielder Aimo Diana "is struggling with a persistent groin injury." Lippi has to name his 23-man selection for the finals by next Monday.