Matteo Darmian revealed how Antonio Conte prepared him to play in a three-man defence for Italy against Malta.
Matteo Darmian revealed how Antonio Conte prepared him to play in a three-man defence for Italy against Malta.
“Malta clammed up from the start, so it was tough to find space. We know that with hard work and dedication we can do great things,” the Torino winger told Rai Sport after a 1-0 victory.
Darmian had played as a right-wing-back in the 2-1 win over Azerbaijan on Friday, but this evening moved to an unexpected centre-back position.
“I am at the disposal of the Coach, so when I am called upon as a winger, a full-back or a centre-back, then I do my best.
“We worked on the three-man defence a few times in training after the Azerbaijan game, but I’ve already played in this position earlier in my career, so I do know it well enough.
“In all honesty, I only found out today I’d be playing in a three-man defence, but over the last few days I also tried out on the right side of midfield.”
Italy have a 100 per cent record under Conte, but face Croatia in a head-to-head for the top of Group H at San Siro next month.
“It’s never easy against teams like Malta, as they close up so much that it’s hard to find space. We could’ve made the difference with a little more determination and aggression.
“Every game is difficult, we started out on the right foot in qualifying with three victories and I am convinced we’ll put in a great performance against Croatia.”