Juventus captain Alessandro Del Piero believes he deserves an Italy recall for Euro 2008 after scoring 18 goals in Serie A this season.

The World Cup winner has not played for his country since giving a poor performance in a goalless qualifying match against France in September.

But calls to bring him back have been mounting as the forward has been instrumental in helping third-placed Juventus secure a Champions League qualification slot on their return to the top flight after relegation over the 2006 match-fixing scandal.

"I think I have deserved (a place at) the European championships with a beautiful season," Del Piero said. "In the end (Italy coach Roberto) Donadoni will calmly make his selection and he'll bank on those who deserve it."

Donadoni said last week that on current form Del Piero had a strong case for a place in his squad.

The 33-year-old has scored 27 goals in 85 internationals.

Reuters