Lazio striker Ciro Immobile has thanked Italy coach Roberto Mancini for sticking with him.

The Azzurri host Greece on Saturday evening and then take on Liechtenstein, with Euro 2020 qualification within their grasp.

Immobile said, “I thank Mancini, as he waited for me to emerge from moments of difficulty and when I scored against Finland, it was like a weight off my shoulders. You will have probably noticed that in my celebration and now I can experience international duty in this extraordinary group of players in a different way.

“We raised our heads, are doing well and want to win every game going towards the Euros with confidence. We don't have a particularly physical midfield, so it's important to play the ball to feet, duet with technique, open up spaces to help the wingers and midfielders.

“We want the people to love this team the way we love it from the inside."