Albertini: Italy will do their talking on the pitch ?

Italian Football Federation vice-president Demetrio Albertini is confident the team can enjoy a successful Euro 2012 campaign.

The ongoing Scommessopoli scandal has threatened to cast a shadow over Azzurri preparations for the tournament, with defender Domenico Criscito omitted from the squad after being questioned by police over his alleged involvement in the betting ring.

But Albertini, who was part of the Italy squad in both the 1996 and 2000 European Championships, maintains his belief that while the build-up has not been ideal, the current crop of players are more than capable of delivering on the pitch.

“The environment has not been the right one, of course, for all that happened, but our team will come well prepared physically and mentally for this challenge,” the 40-year-old told Marca.

“For several days we only talk about football. The mood of the players and the environment was influenced by an event so special. It’s very understandable, given that you see in the newspapers the names of colleagues and friends.

“(The players) want everything. They want to do their speaking on the pitch.

“We have great respect for Spain, but fear not. We know we have to do a perfect game to win, but we have the quality to do so. I think they also respect us and surely they would have preferred face to face with Italy in the last game.”