Lippi led the Azzurri to World Cup glory in 2006 but stood down following that triumph only to return when Roberto Donadoni was released following Italy's elimination from Euro 2008 in the quarter-finals.

The 60-year-old is out of contract in the summer, but when questioned about Lippi's position, Italian football federation president Giancarlo Abete said: "Before we can consider that possibility, we have to think about qualifying for the World Cup.

"We need to focus on Montenegro and Ireland and we must get points against them and try to overtake Giovanni Trapattoni's team in the table."

Italy are level on 10 points with the Republic of Ireland at the top of qualifying Group Eight.

Lippi's side are the visitors to Montenegro on March 28 before hosting Ireland four days later.

Meanwhile, Abete today indicated Italy might be open to putting together a joint bid with France to host Euro 2016.

Both countries last week presented separate proposals to UEFA to host the continental event but the position of both countries would no doubt be strengthened by entering into partnership.

"We don't have any problems with making a joint bid," Abete told RAI television.

"It would be with a neighbouring country, one that we have good relations with.

"If it's not technically or politically possible, we'll focus on our chances."

France and Italy's rivals for hosting Euro 2016 are Turkey and joint-bidders Sweden and Norway.