Italian international Marco Verratti has admitted that he under performed during the recent European Under-21 Championship.
The 20 year old was brought back to the Under 21 squad after previously being part of the full international set up.
The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder has found himself included in Cesare Prandelli’s squads on a regular basis over the past year.
However, Verratti was not chosen to go to the Confederations Cup in Brazil this month, instead he was sent to Israel.
“I perhaps could have done better,” Verratti told Corriere dello Sport.
“But I have to add that I was a late addition to a squad which was already formed and I had to settle in a team which plays differently to what I am used to.
“It was not easy. With the Under-21 side we had two wingers, whereas I have different work to carry out in Paris.
“I gave my all, especially in the defensive phase.”
Italy were beaten in the Final of the Championship by Spain on Tuesday after a 2-4 defeat.
Verratti added that he did not have any remorse over the Championships in Israel and that in Spain, Italy’s Under 21s were beaten by the best team in the world.
“I have no regrets,” added the former Pescara player. “We have to be honest – Spain are the strongest. They made us chase them all over the pitch without ever getting hold of them.
“The experience, though, was fantastic and it gave me the opportunity to get to know another Coach, Devis Mangia, who deserves a job in Serie A.”
Follow Richard Hinman on Twitter: @RichardHinman
