Italy coach Roberto Mancini says Sampdoria striker Fabio Quagliarella deserved his call-up.

Quagliarella, 36, is in line to make his first appearance for Italy in eight years against Finland or Liechtensten over the next fortnight.

Mancini said: “We must prepare for these matches well and be focused because every game has pitfalls hidden away.

“Finland are physically toned and won't be a walk in the park. We also want to win lots of games for our place in the group.

“Quagliarella? He keeps scoring so I couldn't not call him up. He's getting old, that's clear, but I think he can still give us a hand."