We can make a wonderful Italy team – Ventura optimistic after win

Giampiero Ventura is confident that Italy can become a “wonderful team” under his guidance after their 2-0 World Cup qualifying win over Albania.

The Azzurri remain tied with Spain at the top of UEFA’s Group G after securing victory in Palermo through goals from Daniele De Rossi and Ciro Immobile.

And while Italy toiled at times against Albania, Ventura insists this was merely a “small step” towards the long-term development of a young side.

“We are a pretty new group, we took a small step forward,” he told Raisport. “It might not have been an extraordinary performance, but we’ve got what it takes to make this a wonderful Italy team.

“We are starting the work here. Those who didn’t play today will play tomorrow or the day after. There are many young and new players who are gaining experience and we’ve got everything in place to build a strong future for the national team.”

#ItalyAlbania  2-0
Goals from #DeRossi and #Immobile see the #Azzurri take the points to stay top of Group G with Spain. pic.twitter.com/Jf7Eo6P9lT

— Italy (@azzurri) 24 March 2017

And asked whether star midfielder Marco Verratti could have performed better, Ventura was determined that all of his players have room for improvement.

“Marco Verratti can be more consistent over 90 minutes, but [the players] can all do better,” he added.

“When they realise what they can achieve, there will be a new world ahead of them.”