AC Milan striker Stephan El Shaarawy has insisted he is just happy to be back playing with the Italy team, following the 1-1 draw with Croatia.
The 22-year-old came on as a half-time substitute and had a excellent impact on the game, going close with one long range effort, as Italy struggled against the opponents in the Euro 2016 qualifier.
“I’m happy to be back with the national team, and to be scoring again with AC Milan,” El Shaarawy told Rai Sport.
“We wanted to win [against Croatia] and I am satisfied with my performance, even though we didn’t get the victory.
“The coach asked me to mark [Darijo] Srna and push him back as much as possible
“We suffered a little, but we did create a few goalscoring chances.
“Croatia are a team of good quality and have developed a good game. We aren’t demoralised. For us it was a good draw.
Then asked on Mario Balotelli’s inclusion then subsequent withdrawal from the Italy squad, El Shaarawy’s feelings were clear.
“He got an injury but I hope to play with him in the national side soon.
“He is a great player and because of this he can give so much to Italian football.”
