Former Italy striker Christian Vieri has lavished praise on Antonio Conte and claimed that the nation's success at Euro 2016 is 'all down' to their manager.
Italy were not expected to make an impression in the European Championships this summer, but comfortably advanced through the group stages before beating holders Spain in the round of 16 last time out.
Vieri, who scored 23 times in 49 appearances for the Italian national side between 1997 and 2006, has also claimed that the country has once again fallen in love with their football team.
"It's all [Conte]. He has charisma, personality, knows what he wants and gets the most out of his players. He is a star when it comes to tactics and he is very prepared," Vieri told Gazzetta dello Sport.
"He knows who is running, and anyone who isn't is sent home. That's what he wants and it's right. People are proud of this Italy, I am proud of these 23 players and the coach. I'm watching Italy with passion and I see that the players are full of enthusiasm.
"They are in love with the Azzurri shirt and all the values that it brings. I see a lot of pride amongst the fans on social media and I see a lot of excitement within the team, and they don't hold back on the field."
Conte will leave his position with Italy to take control of Chelsea following Euro 2016.
Matt Law
