ROME, Sep 22 (SW) – Italian national boss Marcello Lippi has played down the debate surrounding the continual non-selection of AS Roma defender Christian Panucci.

There have been widespread calls for Panucci’s inclusion in the national setup, with Lippi instead opting for the likes of Daniele Bonera, Cristian Zaccardo and Massimo Oddo.

Cynics have suggested that Panucci’s absence boils down to the poor relationship the pair endured during their time together at Inter Milan in the 1999/2000 season.

“I will again state that my selections are based on only tactical and technical considerations," insisted the Azzurri boss.

Panucci however, is certainly of the opinion that his previous working experience with Lippi has something to do with his absence from the national side.

"I think that Lippi still carries with him the problems we encountered while at Inter together," said the upset defender.

"As far as I am concerned and thanks to my education, I have left certain problems behind me.

"I think it shows a lack of intelligence if certain issues are not forgotten."

When informed of the defender’s comments, Lippi acknowledged that it would be silly of him to harbour a grudge.

"Panucci is right. People who carry problems into the future are not intelligent,” agreed the former Juventus manager.