Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie was delighted to feature for Italy in last night's 2-2 friendly draw with Austria.

He said: "It is great to be wearing the Azzurri jersey again. If I think back to last season, when I had been on my way out of Juventus towards Turkey, then it is extraordinary all that has happened. I thank God for everything he gives me.

"Considering the way things were going, it was turning into a very strange night. Austria scored two goals in a curious fashion, but our character and desire to do well on Lippi's return allowed us to turn it around.

"The pitch wasn't in great condition, at it was an uneven surface and with the number of technically-gifted players we have, it made things difficult and slowed it all down."