The 27-year-old fly-half, who has recently been released by Bath, understands that he may not make the final 30-man squad for the tour of Argentina and Australia but is glad to be back in the selectors thoughts.

I'm overjoyed that the Italian federation hasn't forget me. To be honest I lost all hope after I didn't make it into the last World Cup, but even if this is just a temporary selection I'm happy to be part of it, the Argentina-born goal kicker said.

Pez has gained 16 international caps since his debut in July 2000 against Samoa in Apia, where he scored 9 points.

A left-footed kicker, he has now accumulated 92 international points including three tries for the Azzurri.

His international form was such that he was a surprise omission from Italy's World Cup squad in 2003.

I was a bit shocked after not being picked for the World Cup in Australia, but it was the coachs choice, so I can respect it, Pez added, admitting he now needs to find himself a club for next season.

But now I'm ready to give it my best shot, even if my contract with Premiership club Bath has been ended, I'm still in good form and I really hope to be part of the Azzurri plans.

I must find a club as soon as possible, at present I am having talks with a few different ones, and I hope to sign soon which could be good for my chances in the Azzurri shirt.