Italy coach Roberto Mancini insists Udinese prospect Simone Pafundi deserves his cap.

The Udinese attacker become the youngest player to make his debut for Italy in 100 years for their win in Albania last week.

Mancini said, "There are many young players and compared to the last cycle it will take more time to put it together and make a team.

"But I have good sensations.

"Pafundi's call? If one is good at that age he can play in Serie A. I did it, Pafundi can do it and he has enormous qualities: of course, he must be serious and not get lost off the pitch."