World Cup hopeful Giampaolo Pazzini is looking to make up for lost time when he returns to Italy's starting XI for their friendly against Sweden in Cesena on Wednesday night.

The Sampdoria striker's chances of reaching South Africa with the Azzurri were damaged when he was sent off just four minutes into the Italians' qualifier against Ireland in April, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

"That sending-off against Ireland cost me a lot," said Pazzini.

"I am in debt because without that red card I would have had more possibilities to play with the Azzurri.

"As it is, I have made just four appearances with the senior side so far."

With the battle for places in the squad raging fiercely, Pazzini knows he needs to play well against the Swedes.

"This is a very important year because it brings us to the World Cup," he said. "I have to think of playing well and scoring to earn a place.

"There is a lot of competition and there are only several months left to prove that I deserve a place in the squad."

Pazzini will start up front on Wednesday alongside Marco Marchionni and Serie A's top scorer, Antonio di Natale.

Following Saturday's goalless draw against Holland, the match will be another opportunity for Italy coach Marcello Lippi to evaluate several candidates for his World Cup squad.

Veterans Gianluigi Buffon, Fabio Cannavaro, Andrea Pirlo and Gianluca Zambrotta, who all played at the weekend, have returned to their clubs.

"There will be changes," said Lippi. "Tomorrow's game is an important match and I want to see a balanced team."

Opponents Sweden begin a new chapter under newly-installed head coach Erik Hamren.

Hamren has replaced Lars Lagerback, who resigned last month after Sweden failed to qualify for the World Cup.

Hamren will be without the team's star player Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

The Barcelona striker was not included in the squad as he is struggling with a thigh injury and is believed to be considering his future with the national team.

"As a manager, it is important that players have the motivation to play," said Hamren.

"For me, the most important thing is that you have your heart in what you do."