manager Luciano Spalletti has hailed full-back Destiny Udogie as a player who ‘has everything’ and can ‘make the difference’ in the clash with on Tuesday night.
The 20-year-old arrived at Spurs over the from Udinese and has made an impressive impact, quickly cementing his place in Ange Postecoglou’s starting XI.
His performances at left-back have earned a first cap for Italy, coming on in the 4-0 win over Malta on Saturday and he will hope to earn a second cap at Wembley on Tuesday.
Given how Spalletti has been talking him up, it is likely that the Spurs man will be involved in north London.
‘Udogie has everything,’ Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia. ‘Like all young players, he needs experience, but he has an important engine and in a game where physicality and strength can make the difference, he can help us.’
England just need a draw to confirm qualification for Euro 2024 on Tuesday night, while a win would see the Three Lions secure top spot in the group.
Italy are three points behind England and level on 10 points with Ukraine, so a defeat would not be disastrous for their chances, but a win or draw would put them in a good position, with games against North Macedonia and Ukraine to come.
‘International players see a chance to qualify in these sorts of games and wants to qualify through these games,’ said Spalletti.
‘Those who go on the pitch thinking qualification will be determined in the following matches, are not international players. This is a game where we must be happy to overcome the limits everyone puts in front of us. This is where we see the personality of the team.
‘Players already know many things. We must continue to improve, give more and show an attitude that makes people happy and strengthens us.’
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