He said: "An intolerable atmosphere of racism prevails there. It is quite clearly a problem. The clubs must find a solution because one day something really terrible will happen.
"When we played Lazio there was an inhuman atmosphere filled with incomprehensible insults - and all because of my skin colour.
"I have spoken with other coloured players who have been in Serie A and they tell the same story. Paul Ince had the same problems at Inter."
As for Liverani, he is fully aware of the problems and the implications of his selection. And, he says, the chance to make his Italian debut against South Africa makes the choice even more significant.
The 24-year-old midfielder, the son of a Somali mother and Italian father, said: "It will be a special game for me because South Africa has had to battle so much against racism.
"During my career, I've battled against those same prejudices. When people whistle at me for the colour of my skin, it gives me an extra charge."
Coach Trapattoni said it was Liverani's play, not his skin colour, that won him his place in the squad for tonight's game. "I had to reward him after such an outstanding season," he said.
