To Fiuggi we go; Reja produces the shocks

The Auronzo adventure is firmly over as focus switches to the next stage of development in our pre-season; namely, a ten-day spell in Fiuggi. Once again, Reja has chosen to trim his squad slightly to ensure that it does not exceed 30 in number but in doing so, some of his selections have come under intense scrutiny. 

Cavanda, the young Belgian right-back who impressed many an onlooker has been asked to remain in Rome with goalkeeper Berardi, who incidentally excelled in Auronzo too. 

Barreto also stays behind. The past month cannot have been easy for the youngster and it would be understandable if his mind is elsewhere at present. It is difficult to ascertain to what degree his footballing ability is related to his absence from the Fiuggi squad but undoubtedly, there are many factors to be considered in Reja's decision.

The Uruguayan's absence has paved the way for Kozak to make the journey. The towering Czech has been firing on all cylinders since his return from a relatively unsuccessful loan spell at Brescia and it appears as if Edy wants a closer look at him before deciding fully on his role this season.

Also making the trip with the more established crew is new signing Garrido, the spritely Perpetuini and the ever-loaned Correa. Muslera is back from World Cup duty and as a result, Uruguay finds itself with a weighty presence as Gonzalez and Pintos are part of the 29.

However, that might not be the case for too long. Hernanes is now imminent as Sao Paolo virtually confirm a deal has been done and this is likely to result in the temporary departure of Pintos. It is expected that the Brazilian midfield maestro will join the biancocelesti as soon as he is finished with the Copa Libertadores. That could well be tomorrow night. Which mean Pintos might not be in Fiuggi for very long but only time will tell.