Marouane Fellaini said Belgium “need to play with balls” against Italy in their Euro 2016 opener on Monday.
“We have more experience now than we did at the World Cup in Brazil,” said the Manchester United midfielder in a Press conference.
“On Monday we will be facing a great national team and Italy are very strong on a tactical level.
“We need character, grit and to play, if you excuse the expression, with balls. It will be very important to win the first game, above all to boost confidence.”
Marouane Fellaini said Belgium “need to play with balls” against Italy in their Euro 2016 opener on Monday.
“We have more experience now than we did at the World Cup in Brazil,” said the Manchester United midfielder in a Press conference.
“On Monday we will be facing a great national team and Italy are very strong on a tactical level.
“We need character, grit and to play, if you excuse the expression, with balls. It will be very important to win the first game, above all to boost confidence.”
There are reports Fellaini could be used to pack the midfield and make Belgium more defensive, dropping Napoli winger Dries Mertens.
“I know how to defend, but also attack and be dangerous in the box. The Coach knows what my characteristics are and what I can bring to the group.”
Fellaini was also asked about his future at club level after the arrival of Jose Mourinho.
“I have a one-year contract with option for a second. I’d like to stay and prove to Mourinho that he can count on me. I received a message from him, but obviously that is private.
“Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois spoke well of Mourinho. He comes to Manchester in order to win trophies, so I can improve with him. The club made the right choice.”