Antonio Conte backs Sebastian Giovinco to make Italy's World Cup squad

Juventus boss Antonio Conte has backed Sebastian Giovinco to make Italy's squad for the World Cup this summer.

The form of Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente has seen the forward start only five Serie A games for the reigning champions this season, but Conte believes that the 27-year-old should go to Brazil.

Giovinco started in Juve's 1-0 win over Bologna on Saturday, which led to Conte urging Cesare Prandelli to consider taking the former Parma man.

"Giovinco is doing really well, as he is gaining confidence in his own abilities. It's what I always told him to do. He's so good at taking men on and can be decisive," he told reporters.

"I hope he can continue like this to the end of the season, because he still has a chance of going to the World Cup.

"Someone like Giovinco would certainly be of use to Cesare Prandelli."

Giovinco has earned 17 caps for the Azzurri since making his debut in 2011.