Stephan El Shaarawy got his first Italy cap in over a year and was “satisfied” with his performance against Croatia.
Stephan El Shaarawy got his first Italy cap in over a year and was “satisfied” with his performance against Croatia.
“I am really very happy to have scored my first goal with Milan and come back into the Nazionale,” he told Rai Sport after a 1-1 draw at San Siro.
“We tried to play well, unfortunately it was only a draw, but I am personally satisfied with my performance.”
At one stage when he came on, El Shaarawy was essentially acting as a left-back on Darijo Srna.
“Srna was pushing hard, so the Coach asked me to mark him and we struggled a little in the first 10 minutes, but then started moving the ball around our way and created several chances. It’s a shame they didn’t go in.
“Croatia are a quality side who caused us problems, but we kept our heads and earned a good draw.”
El Shaarawy was reunited with his old Milan teammate Mario Balotelli, who had to miss out with an injury.
“First of all I wish him well for his recovery from the injury. I hope he can return to the Nazionale, as he can still give a great deal to Italian football. We’re friends and it was good to see him again, I wish him all the best.”