Marcello Lippi admits he should never have left the Italy job after their 2006 World Cup triumph.

"I immediately regretted leaving the job," he explained to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"I told myself that I was an imbecile so many times for quitting. I told the FIGC President that I was available and if things didn't go according to plan in Euro 2008 I would be there.

"Everything is much sweeter second time around. I just want to play an important role in this squad again.

"I didn't speak to any other teams or countries because of that and anyone who came to try and get me was ignored.

"Two years ago a group had to be built from nothing. This time it's just a matter of taking things forward. We need to recreate the conditions needed to win.

"We also need to calmly integrate the young talent in the Under-21 side. They can give us the enthusiasm and the freshness."