Chivu and Mutu to lead Romania in Italy friendly

BUCHAREST, Jan 23 (Reuters) Central defender Cristian Chivu and striker Adrian Mutu will lead Romania in next month's friendly against world champions Italy.

Siena midfielder Paul Codrea was also picked in the squad for the match in Siena on February 7.

However, Romania coach Victor Piturca surprisingly dropped right back George Ogararu, a regular with Ajax Amsterdam.

The domestic players completing the squad will be announced on February 2 but Steaua Bucharest midfielder Nicolae Dica, who had right knee surgery this week, is out for about five months.

Squad (overseas players): Defenders: Cosmin Contra (Getafe), Gabriel Tamas (Celta Vigo), Cristian Chivu (Roma), Razvan Rat (Shakhtar Donetsk); Midfielders: Florentin Petre (TSKA Sofia), Paul Codrea (Siena), Razvan Cocis (Sheriff Tiraspol), Laurentiu Rosu (Recreativo Huelva); Forwards: Adrian Mutu (Fiorentina), Ciprian Marica (Shakhtar Donetsk) REUTERS SY ND2158