Sassuolo” data-scaytid=”1″>Sassuolo defender Francesco Acerbi “did not expect” to receive an Italy call just months after defeating cancer.
The 26-year-old was out for practically a whole year, as he was twice diagnosed with testicular cancer.
Sassuolo defender Francesco Acerbi “did not expect” to receive an Italy call just months after defeating cancer.
The 26-year-old was out for practically a whole year, as he was twice diagnosed with testicular cancer.
Playing regularly again at Sassuolo, his impressive performances earned an Azzurri call for Tuesday’s friendly against Albania in Genoa.
“I am very happy, as I did not expect this,” Acerbi told Sky Sport Italia this afternoon.
“I think Conte rewarded me for what I am doing on the field. I reached the Nazionale thanks also to my teammates and I think it is a starting point.
“The Nazionale was certainly an objective, but at this moment I have above all been focusing on working day by day to be ready each Sunday. The call arrived and I am very happy.”
Acerbi had received two Italy call-ups in August and September 2012 without earning a cap.
“I know what Conte evaluates: hard work, determination and hunger. You always have to be focused, he doesn’t give you anything for free and that’s how it should be.
“I certainly don’t want favouritism after what happened. I work hard, train every day to improve and always give more than 100 per cent, so I am satisfied with myself.”