Fiorentina midfielder Riccardo Montolivo is happy to be part of Cesare Prandelli's first Italy squad.

Montolivo has played his best football under the former Fiorentina coach.

"It is a bit odd for me having Prandelli here as Italy Coach. I think he's the first to be excited and fired up by this new adventure," said Montolivo.

"The new faces in the squad, like Antonio Cassano and Mario Balotelli, will try to do everything in order to make decisions difficult for the tactician.

"The World Cup experience was unique as far as I am concerned, but the results were disappointing and we'll try to make up for that.

"South Africa taught lessons to those who remain in the squad and we won't be making those mistakes again."