Soccer-Italy's Spalletti asked federation before including Zaniolo in Euro squad

FILE PHOTO: Soccer Football - Euro 2024 Qualifier - Group C - England v Italy - Wembley Stadium, London, Britain - October 17, 2023 Italy coach Luciano Spalletti Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Couldridge/File Photo

(Reuters) - Italy coach Luciano Spalletti said on Monday that he asked the national federation before including Nicolo Zaniolo in their latest Euro 2024 squad, with the forward assisting authorities in their investigation into alleged illegal betting activity.

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) gave the all-clear for the Aston Villa player to be called up on Friday for the crucial Group C qualifying games at home to North Macedonia on Nov. 17 and away to Ukraine three days later.