Italy Under-21 striker Andrea Belotti says there is renewed confidence around the team ahead of tomorrow’s crucial European Championship en-counter with England.

Like the Young Lions, the Azzurrini endured a tough start to Group B as Sweden came from behind to triumph 2-1 in Olomouc.

Luigi Di Biagio’s side return to the scene of that disappointment tomorrow, although they approach the Ander Stadium encounter buoyed by an improved display against Portugal.

Italy impressed during Sunday’s 0-0 draw in Uherske Hradiste and Palermo striker Belotti is hopeful those impro-vements will continue against Gareth Southgate’s side.

“We wanted to win this game,” he said.

“We prepared very well with the intention of forgetting the defeat against Sweden.

“We played well and this time you saw the real Italy.

“Although we didn’t score, we showed the attitude that we need for all games – everybody ran and helped each other. We just weren’t clinical enough in front of goal.”

Italy’s draw left them bottom of Group B with one point from two games, and they are two points behind second-placed England heading into tomorrow’s clash knowing only a victory can keep their hopes of progressing alive.

“We deserved to win but now is the time to be focused on England,” Belotti continued.

“We have to try to win and reach the semi-finals. We’re confident because we played a great game on Sunday, but not only technically.

“We’ve taken a step forward and have to try to do better again in the next game.”