Marco Verratti is “honoured” by his Italy call-up to face England and enjoyed his Ligue 1 debut with PSG.
Marco Verratti is “honoured” by his Italy call-up to face England and enjoyed his Ligue 1 debut with PSG.
The young midfielder is one of several uncapped players in Cesare Prandelli’s squad for Wednesday’s friendly in Berne.
“I am honoured, because not everyone gets called up to play for Italy,” said the Under-21 international.
“I will do my best for the Azzurri jersey. I am fully aware of how important it is.”
Verratti had been a surprise entry on the Euro 2012 long list, but was dropped from the tournament itself.
He was playing for Pescara at the time, but over the summer was sold to Paris Saint-Germain.
“The result shows no game is easy and we must work hard to win,” he said after a 2-2 draw with Lorient last night.
“I speak on behalf of the team when I say we weren’t satisfied with the result, but did well to fight back against an organised side, so we’ll hold on tight to the point.
“I am happy to have played and that Coach Carlo Ancelotti has faith in me.”