Domenico Berardi said Italy wanted to ‘send a signal’ against Belgium in the Nations League after their defeat to Spain.
The Sassuolo forward was named UEFA Man of the Match after converting a penalty in the 2-1 win over Belgium, securing third place in the Nations League.
“We wanted to do well straight away, because we were down to 10 men against Spain, and I think with 11 on the field we could’ve had our say in that match,” Berardi told RAI Sport.
“This was also an important win for the FIFA ranking, so we’re pleased with the result.”
That defeat to Spain ended a 37-match world record unbeaten run that stretched back to October 2018.
With Ciro Immobile and Andrea Belotti injured, Italy have been experimenting different options in the attacking trident.
“There are many great players upfront. I like to roam around the field, the coach asked us to do that. It was important to win today and send a signal, so we did that.”
Switzerland beat Northern Ireland last night, meaning they are only three points behind Italy with a game in hand for this 2022 World Cup qualifying group.
The Azzurri go head-to-head with the Swiss in Rome next month.
“We will prepare in the best way, we know that we need a great performance, but I am sure we’ll deliver.”