ROME, September 10, 2008 (AFP) - Nicola Legrottaglie is an added concern to Italy's defensive problems ahead of the world champions' World Cup qualifier against Georgia in Udine on Wednesday.

The Juventus centre-back, who was favourite to start alongside captain Fabio Cannavro in the heart of Italy's defence, felt pain in his right leg during a morning training session on Wednesday, the Italian Football Federation (Figc) said.

According to Figc, the 31-year-old was to undergo tests before a decision would be made on his participation in the Group Eight match.

Italy are already without two centre-backs: Girogio Chiellini, a revelation at Euro 2008, and Alessandro Gamberini, who limped off against Cyprus on Saturday, as well as full-back Fabio Grosso, who was also injured in the 2-1 win in Cyprus.

Added to that AC Milan's defensive midfielder Gennaro Gattuso is out with a fractured wrist.

If Legrottaglie is not passed fit, VfL Wolfsburg's Andrea Barzagli, who came on for the Gamberini in Larnaca, should partner Cannavaro.