Rugani harbours Euro hopes

Juventus defender Daniele Rugani admits that he still harbours hopes of earning a place in Anotnio Conte’s Italy squad for Euro 2016 this summer.

The 21-year-old endured a frustrating first-half of the season after joining the Old Lady from Empoli in the summer, but he has featured regularly for Massimiliano Allegri’s side since the turn of the year, helping them to secure their fifth successive Serie A crown.

The centre back is now hoping his form can catch the eye of Azzurri coach Conte ahead of this summer’s European Championships, but he knows the decision on selection is ultimately out of his hands.

He said: “I hope and believe I can go to the Euros, I’m working for that. I’m training hard to stay in good form. I’ve not received any messages from Conte but, its not a problem. I know I’ve got to earn it on the pitch.”

Rugani is yet to make his full international debut, but he has featured regularly at under-21 level, and he was included in the full-squad by Conte during Euro 2016 qualifying.

Should the youngster earn a call-up for the finals then he could make his international bow in one of the Azzurri’s group matches against Belgium, Sweden or the Republic of Ireland.

Italy reached the final of the European Championships in 2012 and they are available at 2.60 to finish top of Group E, while they are on offer at 1.22 to qualify for the knockout stages.