Italy a threat despite ageing players, mavericks

Italy's coach Cesare Prandelli reacts during their international friendly soccer match against Spain at Vicente Calderon stadium in Madrid March 5, 2014. REUTERS/Susana Vera

ROME (Reuters) - Italy's two most influential players have a combined age of over 70, their most prolific striker is battling injury, and other key players are prone to wild swings in temperament.

Meanwhile, an unproductive youth system is struggling to replenish the talent pool and, despite his best efforts to promote younger players, coach Cesare Prandelli, 56, could end up fielding a starting XI with an average age of around 30.