Empoli midfielder Mirko Valdifiori was thrilled with his Italy debut against England.

Valdifiori started in the 1-1 draw.

"I was marked by Wayne Rooney! Roy Hodgson evidently told him to look out for me, which is remarkable," said Valdifiori on his return to the Empoli camp.

"Everything was incredible, right from singing the anthem with 30,000 people, arm in arm with my teammates. The sense of belonging to your nation in that moment really stays with you and is difficult to put into words.

"I barely slept last night, as I had so much adrenaline running through my veins. It was a magnificent night and I got to experience my Italy debut after so many years of chasing this dream.

"Gigi Buffon, Giorgio Chiellini and Leo Bonucci reassured me before the game, as they have so much international experience and helped me stay cool-headed."