D'Ambrosio: "Italy call - up an amazing feeling"

COVERCIANO – Danilo D'Ambrosio is celebrating his first-ever call-up to the Italy national team this evening. 

Speaking from the Azzurri training ground in Coverciano, the full-back has spoken about the emotions going through this head after this milestone moment in his career.

"Walking through the gates at Coverciano was an amazing feeling," D'Ambrosio said. "I've already been here with the youth teams but getting the call-up to the senior squad is a completely different sensation.

"I never lost hope that I'd make it here," the Nerazzurri defender continued, "because I'm convinced that by working hard every day, you'll get the results sooner or later. The satisfaction is even greater when it's taken such a long time. What with the birth of my son and the call-up to the national team, I couldn't have asked for much better in the last few weeks.

"I have to thank Pioli and my team-mates because when the squad is functioning well, the performance levels from individual players goes up too. The gaffer has given a precise identity to the team and the results are there for all to see, so much so that drawing with Torino was like a defeat for us. This call-up is a great opportunity and it's up to me to grasp it as best as I can because ultimately down on the pitch is where it's all decided."

Italy coach Giampiero Ventura has also named three other Inter players  – Roberto Gagliardini, Antonio Candreva and Eder – in his squad for the upcoming internationals. 

"That hasn't happened for quite some time," D'Ambrosio concluded. "I think it's something the club should be proud of."