Thiago Motta: Italy need mental strength

Thiago Motta has claimed that Italy need to show mental strength at Euro 2012 to get over their recent poor form.

A 3-0 defeat to Russia last week condemned the Azzurri to their third consecutive friendly defeat ahead of the tournament in Poland and Ukraine.

"It's normal that after three straight defeats you are worried, but the mentality of the team will be crucial," Motta told reporters.

"We need to help each other out and be generous. It is important to have the will and the mentality to win. We have quality players that can play in any team in the world. If we are able to play as a group, we can fight against anyone."

Italy open their campaign on Sunday against holders Spain in Gdansk.