Andrea Belotti reiterates he is happy to ‘alternate’ the centre-forward spot with good friend Ciro Immobile, as Italy prepare to host Wales.
The final Group A game kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome tomorrow at 17.00 UK time and a point will be enough to secure top spot for the Azzurri.
Roberto Mancini is expected to rotate the squad, with Belotti starting in place of his room-mate Immobile.
“I am always happy for him when he scores goals and helps the team to win. We represent the nation, so if he scores, it’s good for everyone,” said the Torino striker in his press conference.
“Whoever the coach chooses to play, we are all working in the same direction and for just one objective, for Italy to win.
“There are 26 of us in the squad and if Italy are to go all the way, we’re going to need everyone to give their contribution. Ciro and I have always alternated upfront over the last few years, it’s up to us to be ready when called upon.
“I am dreaming of starting tomorrow, but it all depends on what the coach chooses. I can say that just seeing the fans in the stadium again was already so emotional, let alone starting in a European Championship match.
“Every time I wear the Italy jersey, representing my country is gratifying on a personal as well as a professional level.”
Italy have won both opening games so far by 3-0 scorelines against Turkey and Switzerland, but critics have pointed to the lack of a classic Number 9 upfront.
“A centre-forward can influence a game even if he doesn’t necessarily score a goal,” added Il Gallo.
“We have the characteristics to make the difference, we just need to prove it on the pitch.”