Verratti can play alongside Pirlo, says Prandelli

10 Oct 2012 08:15:00

The successful coach believes the duo can feature in the same team, while the youngster himself has stressed that he's ready to play wherever the coach needs him

Italy boss Cesare Prandelli is confident that Andrea Pirlo and Marco Verratti complement each other on the pitch and can play together, despite the similarities in their style of play.

The national team coach feels the Paris Saint-Germain youngster could play slightly ahead of his Juventus colleague, or the two could even switch positions throughout the match.

"I think he can play alongside Pirlo, maybe slightly in front of him. They could even switch positions during the game," Prandelli told reporters.

Verratti himself, meanwhile, insisted that he's played in an advanced position before, and added that he doesn't feel important at Italy just yet.

"I played a few games behind the striker at Pescara last season so I see myself as a versatile player. But, of course, I will play anywhere for Italy.

"I don't feel important. I am lucky enough to be in the national team at 19 and this is something that doesn't happen to most players.

"I can only be myself and try to improve, that's the only goal a player of my age should strive for. I don't know if I am a player for the future, I have to think about the present."

Italy take on Armenia on Friday, before locking horns with Denmark four days later.