Italy boss Cesare Prandelli has called for patience in anticipation of his side playing good football.
The Azzurri have dropped to 16th in the world rankings despite topping Group C in Euro 2012 qualifying.
"I have never treated this appointment as an uncomfortable inheritance," Prandelli said.
"I firmly believe that the national team that didn't give any satisfaction at the last World Cup desire the entire country's full respect.
Italy boss Cesare Prandelli has called for patience in anticipation of his side playing good football.
The Azzurri have dropped to 16th in the world rankings despite topping Group C in Euro 2012 qualifying.
"I have never treated this appointment as an uncomfortable inheritance," Prandelli said.
"I firmly believe that the national team that didn't give any satisfaction at the last World Cup desire the entire country's full respect.
"Right now, it's the results that count. I am looking to apply the method of meritocracy.
"I believe that it's an obligation to keep in mind those players who are most in form and doing the best with their own teams.
"I intend to get results in light of the yearning for good football, but I am conscious of not being able to do it immediately," he concluded.