Antonio Cassano says he has stopped gobbling focaccine, lost 10 kilos and is waiting for Italy coach Cesare Prandelli to call him up in time for the World Cup.

The 31-year-old has not been picked by Prandelli since Euro 2012 when he formed the striking partnership with Mario Balotelli. But his fitness and form this season, with 11 Serie A goals for Parma, has raised his hopes that he could get a last-minute recall.

“I can’t do better than this. I don’t know if there’s still a chance but I’m doing everything in my power to give Prandelli something to think about,” he said after scoring twice in a 4-2 win away to former club Milan on Sunday

“Now, I’m slim, before I was Cicciobello (the name of an Italian doll),” he added.

“I’ve lost 10 kilos to go to Brazil. I’m on a diet and I’ve stopped eating focaccine (mini foccacia), except for once a week.

“I have never played at a World Cup and it’s something I’d love to do. I would be the happiest man in the world if it happened.”

Cassano, born in Bari, has had a colourful career which has taken him to Roma, Sampdoria, Real Madrid, Milan and their rivals Inter and has been marked by tantrums and personality clashes.

“Is there a magic formula for dealing with Cassano. I’m not saying, otherwise I’ll make it too easy for the others,” said Parma coach Roberto Donadoni.

“In reality, it just takes common sense, balance and flexibility. If you refuse to budge from your position, you end up clashing so you just have to get off the pedestal and find a compromise.”