Juventus attacking midfielder Raffaele Palladino can't believe his first call-up to the Italy squad this week.

"This call rewards me for so many sacrifices, especially when I was on the outskirts of the Juve side and had to fight for a starting shirt," admitted Palladino.

"Last year I was still in the Under-21 squad, so when I was told of this call at first I thought it was a joke. When I discovered it was real, I was crazy with joy."

He added: "We are a young group at Juve, but thankfully we have an excellent Coach in Claudio Ranieri who is teaching us many things.

"After having won the Serie B title last year, that gave us more strength, confidence and unity. With that humble attitude we will continue to go forward."