Gianluigi Buffon has told his fellow players not to underestimate Malta when Italy play them on Thursday.
Italy are 2nd in Group H of the Euro qualifiers with 12 points from six games and Buffon has backed midfielder Marco Verratti to shine.
“We can not underestimate Malta,” Buffon told reporters.
“Over the last few years they have grown and they rarely get beaten by a big scoreline.
“We have always found it difficult against Malta.
“We have to carry on our good form and try to win our next two matches which are at home.
“All the players are focused on Italy and we want to build something great for Italian football.
“Verratti has nothing to prove to anyone.
“He plays at a high level for Paris Saint-Germain and I am sure he will do well for Italy.”
