Graziano Pelle admits he might’ve handled the ball on Italy’s decisive goal to beat Malta 1-0.

The Southampton striker also netted the only goal the last time these sides met, so the Maltese fans must really dislike him now.

“I play for Italy, my job is to score goals. It was a difficult game against Malta and we saw Croatia were held by Azerbaijan, so football has levelled out now and every win is tough,” he told Rai Sport.

Graziano Pelle admits he might’ve handled the ball on Italy’s decisive goal to beat Malta 1-0.

The Southampton striker also netted the only goal the last time these sides met, so the Maltese fans must really dislike him now.

“I play for Italy, my job is to score goals. It was a difficult game against Malta and we saw Croatia were held by Azerbaijan, so football has levelled out now and every win is tough,” he told Rai Sport.

Pelle bundled the Antonio Candreva cross over the line from point-blank range, but was it with his arm or his chest?

“I don’t remember whether I touched it with my arm. I’ll have to see the replay too and then I’ll tell you.

“We weren’t under pressure or allowed them chances, but when there are 10 men behind the ball it’s tricky. If we had scored earlier, it would’ve been a different type of game.

“Obviously we know that we need to improve, but every match is going to be difficult and we have to start every encounter with that determination and patience.”

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