Amauri will not sing the Italian anthem © EuroFootball.com

For the first time, Brazilian-born striker Amauri, who was called up to the Italian national team, does not intend to sing the country's anthem if he is released onto the field in a friendly match against Ivory Coast.

Also joining him in the team will be Italian of Ghanaian origin Mario Balotelli.

"I know the Italian anthem, but for now I won't sing it," said 30-year-old Amauri. "With Balotelli, we will have to change people's views."

The Turin "Juventus" footballer, who last year had the opportunity to represent his native Brazil, obtained Italian citizenship in April.