Napoli defender Paolo Cannavaro says his first call-up to the Italy squad is down to the management at his club.

"This call-up is even more satisfying for me because it comes while I have been playing for my beloved club side," stated the former Under-21 international.

"This is very rewarding for me and I would like to share this present with all the fans and the whole of Naples.

"Today is a very special day because I am fulfilling a dream which I have wanted for some time."

Cannavaro is part of Roberto Donadoni's squad for Wednesday's friendly against South Africa and he added: "It's a sensational feeling to be included.

"You do sometimes think about the national side, but you feel an indescribable joy when it does actually arrive.

"I want to thank the club, President Aurelio De Laurentiis, director general Pierpaolo Marino and everyone who has ever believed in me.

"They had faith in my abilities and gave me the possibility to wear the club shirt of my home city."