Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio admits the loss of AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli is a big blow for Italy.

Balotelli is out of the Confederations Cup with a thigh injury.

Marchisio said: "Balotelli is an important loss. We all know how strong Mario is and he wanted to get 'sporting revenge' on Spain. Balotelli has matured and was making the difference, even sacrificing himself for the good of the team, which was unlikely in the past."