Marco Parolo believes Italy will “prove people wrong” at Euro 2016 and tips birthday boy Lorenzo Insigne to be “decisive.”
The Lazio midfielder spoke at a Press conference from Italy’s training camp at Coverciano.
“At this moment we all have to consider ourselves first choices, everyone must put in the utmost effort to help the Coach make the best choice,” said Parolo.
Marco Parolo believes Italy will “prove people wrong” at Euro 2016 and tips birthday boy Lorenzo Insigne to be “decisive.”
The Lazio midfielder spoke at a Press conference from Italy’s training camp at Coverciano.
“At this moment we all have to consider ourselves first choices, everyone must put in the utmost effort to help the Coach make the best choice,” said Parolo.
“We work hard with Antonio Conte and I like that approach. Recently at Lazio I had a slight injury, so this fitness work is allowing everyone to get revved up.
“The Coach always has so much temperament and a winning mentality that pushes you to give your all, even in training. There is a great team spirit and everyone is ready to sacrifice themselves for the group.”
Many critics have said this Italy side is not very competitive going into Euro 2016.
“With the right spirit anything is possible. We don’t have particular peaks of talent, but there are players who can turn a game. Many players made their mark with hard work and sacrifice, making the difference in the League and Champions League.
“If it goes badly, you can write we are bad, but at times it’s even more enjoyable to surprise and prove people wrong. At the end, maybe some will admit they were wrong.
“Going into the 2014 World Cup in Brazil there were some big changes in the squad. In this case we worked as a unit, seeing as those in the Nazionale have been part of it for a while.
“We do have some good talents in the Under-21 side, although at times there are too many expectations piled upon them. Abroad players are given more time to grow. There might be a small generational gap, but we’ll bridge it soon enough.”
Insigne celebrates his 25th birthday today and could well start against Belgium.
“This morning we wished him a happy birthday. He is one of those players who stands out for his talent, so if he puts himself at the service of the team then he can be decisive. We are happy to have him here and hope he can repeat his Napoli performances with goals and assists.
“I’d say France are the favourites for Euro 2016, then Germany. There are many outsiders after them, among them Italy. We might have some limitations, but also a great defence.”
Torino boss Giampiero Ventura is tipped to be the next Italy Coach, although he has also been linked with Lazio.
“Ventura is a great Coach, so he can do well for the Nazionale or Lazio, then it’s up to him to choose.”