England's Under-21s have lined up top-quality opposition as they warm up for their upcoming crunch European Championship qualifiers against Portugal and Turkey in March/April.
David Platt's team take on Italy away at the Stadio dei Marmi in Carrara, outside Pisa on Tuesday, 11th February, with kick-off at 9pm local time (8pm British time).
The last two encounters between the two countries have been close affairs and Platt is well acquainted with the Italians' strengths: "Italy are one of the leading football nations in the world and always produce top-quality players. We have had two very tough games against them over the last 12 months and know what to expect. They will be compact, disciplined and ruthless when it comes to exploiting goal-scoring opportunities. We will need to be at our best and this match provides ideal preparation for our two qualification matches."
The two countries last met at the European Championship in Switzerland in May 2002. Italy ran out 2-1 winners with two Massimo Maccarone goals overshadowing Gareth Barry's fine left-foot volley.
David Platt's team take on Italy away at the Stadio dei Marmi in Carrara, outside Pisa on Tuesday, 11th February, with kick-off at 9pm local time (8pm British time).
The last two encounters between the two countries have been close affairs and Platt is well acquainted with the Italians' strengths: "Italy are one of the leading football nations in the world and always produce top-quality players. We have had two very tough games against them over the last 12 months and know what to expect. They will be compact, disciplined and ruthless when it comes to exploiting goal-scoring opportunities. We will need to be at our best and this match provides ideal preparation for our two qualification matches."
The two countries last met at the European Championship in Switzerland in May 2002. Italy ran out 2-1 winners with two Massimo Maccarone goals overshadowing Gareth Barry's fine left-foot volley.
Feb. 11: Italy U21 v England U21
Feb. 12: Italy v Portugal
