Napoli striker Lorenzo Insigne has thanked Italy boss Cesare Prandelli for giving him his first start in international football.

The 22-year-old, who scored on his debut off the bench against Argentina last year, began last night's World Cup qualifier with Bulgaria, which was settled by a single goal from Alberto Gilardino.

Afterwards, Insigne said that pulling on the Azzurri shirt is an honour and he is prepared to work hard for it.

"[Playing for] Napoli in the city where I grew up is a wonderful feeling, but so is starting for Italy and I thank the coach for this opportunity," he told Rai Sport.

"Wearing the Nazionale jersey remains an honour, whether you're on the pitch, on the bench or in the stands.

"What the coaches ask of me, I try to deliver. They know what I can do and try to put me at ease, while I always try to give my all when attacking and defending."

Insigne starred for the Italian Under-21s in the recent European Championships in Israel.

Written by
Michael Penkman