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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
John Cross

Marco Verratti singles out England's biggest threat and how Italy will deal with him

Marco Verratti claims Italy will be fired up by the red-hot atmosphere at Wembley.

And Verratti also insists Italy’s veteran defenders Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci will be able to shut out England’s attack.

Juventus centre half Chiellini, 36, and 34-year-old Bonucci have a combined age of 70 but have been the cornerstone of Italy’s march to the finals.

They will face a major test against in-form duo Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling but Verratti says Italy are experienced and will handle not just England but the big match occasion.

Verratti said: “We will face a very tough team who will be at home and know the stadium well. It's a dream to win this European Championship and the supporters will be important.

“But we are all professionals and know how it is to play in fan packed stadiums. It will drive us as well.

“Giorgio and Leonardo are two players who really help us out a lot. They have great experience, they get stronger with age and we are very lucky to have them on our side.

“They make us feel safe, they give you that extra confidence which is very important for us mentally.

“We know they are back there, two excellent defenders who are probably most representative of this side. So, again, we are happy and lucky to have them on our side.”

Italy are on the back of a 33 game unbeaten run under Roberto Mancini, the four-time World Cup winners have only won the Euros once before themselves - winning in 1968 and then losing the final in 2000 and 2012 - and Verratti says it could be a once in a lifetime chance for them.

"These games are in a way easy to prepare for,” he said. "Everyone will give it their best shot. You know moments like this one might not come up again. I hope that's not the case. I don't think we need to charge up for it. We are 100 per cent. You must grab it and win. We want to win.

“We most focus on our playing staff and put aside everything else. These games can put you under a lot of pressure and I think the team that will play more lightheartedly with a free mind will gain the upper hand.

(Getty Images)

"Sometimes when you play football you just focus on that and you don't properly realise what's going on. That's the thing about football, it all happens quickly. You can focus on one single match and celebrate, but you must not exaggerate, because there is another one.

“We are focused on the final now. We don't want to be overwhelmed. We've seen people celebrating in the streets, but every game you give it all you can. That's truly all that matters."

Verratti singled out Sterling as a major threat because the Manchester City forward is enjoying a brilliant tournament, has been England’s match-winner twice and scoring three goals while his contribution against Denmark was huge, forcing a penalty and an own goal.

To pre-order a copy of the UEFA EURO 2020 Official Final Programme, click here

"He's fantastic, he proves this every year and is doing this with England,” said Verratti. “I think he's a great player."

But Verratti said that England also hold special memories for him personally and believes Italy are ready to rise to the occasion.

He added: “I do have memories. My debut was against England back in 2012. We also played England in another tournament, so I think Italy v England is always a great match. Two great teams and nations. Both deserve to be in the final.

“They had a sensational tournament. We both performed well but there can only be one winner and I hope it's us. We cannot wait to start in this magnificent stadium.”

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