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Andrea Pirlo: 'Playing in MLS may have hindered my Italy hopes'

Andrea Pirlo claims that his Italy chances may have been hindered by his move to MLS side New York City FC, but is still hopeful that he can make the Euro 2016 squad.

Italy midfielder Andrea Pirlo has admitted that his international chances may have been hindered by his move to the MLS, but is still hopeful that he can make the Euro 2016 squad.

The 37-year-old, now plying his trade at American outfit New York City FC, was left out of Azzurri boss Antonio Conte's 28-man training camp this week.

"When someone decides to come to the United States, he knows what he's getting into. I reflected on this and I knew what the risks were," Pirlo told the Gazzetta dello Sport.

"It's clear that anyone who plays in Belgium or another league with less quality still has a chance of making the Champions League or the Europa League. And that's what makes the difference.

"Conte has still not named the final squad. The players who are still playing in official games have not been called up. Sebastian [Giovinco, of Toronto FC] and I talked to Conte about the decision. It's still possible."

Pirlo, formerly of Juventus and AC Milan, has represented Italy in eight international tournaments.

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Italy's coach Antonio Conte follows the action during the UEFA Euro 2016 Group H qualifying football match Norway vs Italy on September 9, 2014
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