Italy forward Stephan El Shaarawy has praised his side’s performance in their 1-1 draw away to Croatia, and has no hard feelings over his disallowed goal.
The Azzurri thought that they had scored the first goal of the game through El Shaarawy, but the goal was swiftly ruled offside. The incident led to Italy conceding on the break, a moment which the youngster feels was just and should not be focused upon.
“I don’t feel robbed [of the goal] whatsoever,” he said to Sky Sport Italia after the game.
“Everyone was able to see whether my goal was valid or not, and the referee made his decision.
“The game changed after my disallowed goal only 10 minutes in, but we came here to play on the same level [as the opponent] no matter what.
“In the end we managed to pull back a goal and showed great character, so I’m satisfied with the result.”
After spending several months sidelined with successive injuries, the Italian remains jubilant over his comeback, and puts down some of his success to national coach Antonio Conte.
“In recent months I have put in a lot of hard work to get back into shape, and I have to thank Conte for showing so much faith and encouraging me.
“I’m happy to be fit again, I just hope I can start next season even stronger.
The AC Milan forward then gave a few words about Colombian striker Jackson Martinez, who is said to be on the verge of joining the Rossoneri, and could partner the Italian up front next season.
“He’s a great striker and I’m really glad that he’s joining. He can give us a huge hand and can score many goals.”
