Stephan El Shaarawy “really likes” his new role covering the entire left flank for Italy after a 2-0 win over Finland.

“We arrive at the Euros with a lot of confidence, aware of our strengths and it’s better if they don’t treat us as favourites,” the Roma winger told Rai Sport.

“We will try to put in a great performance against Belgium. We are improving with each game and tonight had a good performance.

Stephan El Shaarawy “really likes” his new role covering the entire left flank for Italy after a 2-0 win over Finland.

“We arrive at the Euros with a lot of confidence, aware of our strengths and it’s better if they don’t treat us as favourites,” the Roma winger told Rai Sport.

“We will try to put in a great performance against Belgium. We are improving with each game and tonight had a good performance.

“The Coach asked me for a lot of intensity on the left wing. I had never previously really covered the whole flank from box to box, but I’m getting the hang of it and giving my all.

“I feel very good in that role, especially as I have a great defender like Giorgio Chiellini behind me. I feel good physically, so I am capable of covering the whole flank.”

Antonio Candreva is covering a similar position and task on the right.

“With this system we have to do a lot more defending, but when we get the ball we are asked to go very wide and spread the opposition defence. I like this role and am ready to do it.

“As a team we are starting to find our idea of football, how to connect between the various sections and I see the strikers are combining well too. Of course we must be ready, because against Belgium it’ll be a very different game.”

Thiago Motta was jeered by the Stadio Bentegodi crowd after his substitution. Was that unfair?

“Thiago Motta is a proven champion and I am sure he will make his mark for the team at Euro 2016.”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Tickets Kit Collector