De Sanctis expects tough encounter

Morgan De Sanctis disagrees with Leonardo Bonucci’s belief that Italy are stronger than England ahead of their Euro 2012 quarter-final.

The goalkeeper’s Italy team-mate said Cesare Prandelli’s men had proven themselves superior on the evidence of the two sides’ performances in the group stages.

However, while De Sanctis is in no doubt Italy have the talent to progress to the semi-finals, he feels they will be put to the test in Kiev on Sunday.

“I don’t entirely agree with Bonucci,” the Napoli man told reporters at a press conference on Friday.

“I am still confident, because I think this squad can beat England, but not without difficulty.

“The English have a good temperament and physical strength. We can combat them with an intelligent and controlled game.

“So, we have to develop a highly-technical performance that can negate their aggression.”

Part of the reason De Sanctis is so wary of England is the fact they are now coached by a very familiar face.

“I know Roy Hodgson well, seeing as we worked together at Udinese,” he said.

“I can imagine he’s preparing for the match very well, especially in terms of defence.”