Forget the insults, Materazzi now quotes JFK

Italy defender Marco Materazzi can do more than insult his opponents, he can even quote former US President John F Kennedy.

The 34-year-old, best known for provoking France's Zinedine Zidane to head-butt him in the chest at the 2006 World Cup final, is fed up with his critics and wants to show his intelligent side at Euro 2008.

"I think it was Kennedy who said: 'Forgive what they have said but don't forget their names,' he told a news conference yesterday when asked about those who have derided his character or style of play.

"Since I was a child I have risen above preconceptions. Now I will try again to demonstrate my worth, if it is necessary another time."

The furore over his uncomplimentary words to the now retired Zidane about his sister will not die down. Having played each other in Euro qualification, world champions Italy meet France again in their final Group C game on June 17.

Until then Materazzi does not want to think about the French, even if his chest is primed should any of Zidane's successors fancy another go.

"First there is Holland then Romania before France. They are a great team but we will think about France later on," he said.

"My chest remains as it was, it is resistant enough."

Materazzi endured a frustrating season at club side Inter which included injury, a Champions League sending-off and a missed penalty that nearly cost them the Italian title. Despite fellow centre back Fabio Cannavaro being ruled out of the tournament through injury, Materazzi is not certain to start Monday's first group match against Netherlands in Berne.

Pundits have speculated Italy coach Roberto Donadoni will plump for Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini in the centre of defence because Materazzi does not look as sharp as he was.

"I know my strength but nothing is certain. If I wasn't fit I wouldn't be here," he said.