Ricci names biggest Italy inspirations past and present

Samuele Ricci has named Italy and Juventus legend Andrea Pirlo as the biggest inspiration as an Azzurri midfielder after making his full debut with the senior national team during the 3-1 victory away against France on Friday.

The Torino man became the latest in a long line of Italian midfielders to don the Azzurri shirt on Friday evening, and came away with excellent review from critics in the media.

Most outlets in Italy gave him a 7 or 7.5/10 rating for his performance at the base of Luciano Spalletti’s midfield three.

Ricci names Pirlo and Tonali as his Italy inspirations

Taking part in his first press conference for the senior Italy side on Sunday, Ricci said he was delighted to be part of a spirited Italy group, and also explained which players he likes to mould his own game on.

“I watched Pirlo a lot, being a midfielder,”  The 23-year-old told the press.

“But there have been so many in the past. We’ve had so many strong players, but the player I watched the most was definitely Pirlo.”

Of the current crop of Italy midfielders, Ricci is particularly happy to be working alongside Newcastle and former Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali, who he dubbed one of the best in the world at what he does.

“He’s always been a strong player, one of the most complete midfielders in the world and playing with him in the middle of the park makes everyone’s work easier.”