GIOVANNI TRAPATTONI FEELS that the reputation of Italian football has taken yet another blow, following the latest match fixing allegations to hit the country.

Cremona prosecutors have launched a probe that has seen the arrests of Lazio captain Stefano Mauri and former Genoa midfielder Omar Milanetto.

Italy defender Domenico Criscito has been axed from the Azzurri squad for the upcoming European Championships after he was questioned at the team’s training ground in Coverciano, Florence.

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has also been interviewed by police.

“It is a devastating story,” Trapattoni told Gazzetta dello Sport. “If the magistrates are doing something, it is because there is some truth in this.

“I, who have travelled abroad for some time, must say that we give an ugly image of our football.

“As an Italian, the first feeling is that we are mocked abroad, we are always linked to illicit dealings and are considered mafia members.

“This only damages us because I can claim to have paid the price for an attitude that affects everyone.”

Read: Criscito axed from Italy squad >

Read: Lazio captain among 19 arrested over match-fixing >