Cesare Prandelli insisted there were “good indications” from Italy’s friendly defeat to England after giving six players their debuts.
The squad had an average age of under 25 and 12 of the players called up were uncapped for today’s 2-1 loss in Switzerland.
“Defeats are still defeats, even if they are friendlies, but they are useful because we are planning the World Cup qualifiers and I got some good indications today,” said the Coach.
This was the Azzurri’s fourth consecutive friendly defeat and came six weeks after beating England in the Euro 2012 quarter-final.
Mattia Destro was particularly impressive in attack, creating several scoring opportunities.
“Mattia did very well and I am happy, especially as it was a very special game for the strikers against a physically strong defence.
“We showed character and must continue along this path. I liked the performance,” continued Prandelli on RAI Sport.
“We have to understand which young players have the right qualities, as we have to look to the future.
“Obviously those who played at Euro 2012 will have the chance to continue, but we must also consider the future of the Nazionale.”