Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has explained his call-up for Hellas Verona midfielder Romulo.

The midfielder is Brazilian-born and raised.

Prandelli said: "We had this idea watching the teams and listening to the statements of players. We got information on his status and in my view Romulo is able to cover several roles, has pace, technique and consistency.

"We quietly kept an eye on him and called him up because I feel he deserves to be among the 40 pre-World Cup players."