Ranocchia: I've not seen the sun and I miss pasta

Andrea Ranocchia's transition from Serie A to the Premier League has not been without problems, the Hull City centre back has revealed, claiming he hasn't seen the sun in almost two months.

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The 29-year-old joined City in January on loan for the rest of the season and has so far made six starts under new Tigers boss Marco Silva.

And while Ranocchia's performances for the Premier League strugglers have suggested otherwise, the Italian has admitted he has encountered a few teething problems as he looks to settle to life in England.

"I do struggle with the language and driving on the wrong side of the road was a problem – on the first day alone I went into the wrong way down two crossings," Ranocchia told  GianlucaDiMarzio.com.  "I've already scraped the rims on my car wheels on the pavements!

"I've been here for a month and a half, but I am yet to see the sun. It rains practically every day. I really miss pasta, too.

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"The first day I arrived in the locker room, they forced me to stand on a chair and sing a song. I had no idea what to sing, so I started with the Italian national anthem!"

Despite the cultural differences, Ranocchia insists he is enjoying his time in the English top flight and is hoping that his performances can propel him back into the reckoning for international duty with Italy, for whom he has previously made 21 appearances.

"I chose to challenge myself by accepting the proposal from Hull City, also to try for a return to the national team, but at this moment I am above all focused on living this experience to the max," added Ranocchia.

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"Marco Silva called me to propose a project that I immediately liked, plus many of my Inter teammates spoke well of the Premier League. I can now say they were right. It is fun, although there are hardly any tactics at work here. It's mainly instinct and physical strength.

"The players are so strong and fast, but I am settling in well, mainly because the Italian tactical school is the best in the world, so I'm prepared for anything."