Bonucci boosted by start

ITALY’S Leonardo Bonucci claims the Azzurri are a match for anyone at Euro 2020.

Roberto Mancini’s side put down a marker to their rivals by thumping Turkey 3-0 to record the biggest win in the opening game of a European Championship.

Italy have stretched their unbeaten run to 28 games and have won their last nine matches without conceding.

“We’re delighted with our win, it was fully deserved,” said Juventus centre-half Bonucci (below).

“We will now focus on the positives from our display, cancel out any negatives, and think about our next match against Switzerland on Wednesday.

“I had hoped the opening match would be like this and we’re all very pleased, but this is just the first step on a long journey. We have started the right way, but it’s only the first game.

“We need to keep our feet on the ground and be humble.

“The games are in close succession and the other teams will become increasingly familiar with us. But we are confident in our ability and know we can give anyone a game.”

Much has been made of the young players successfully integrated into the team by Mancini, such as Nicolo Barella and Gianluigi Donnarumma, since he took over in 2018.

Yet Bonucci, at 34, and his defensive partner Giorgio Chiellini, at 36, continue to defy Father Time with their displays.

Bonucci is quick to acknowledge the protection given to them by their team-mates and Chelsea midfielder Jorginho was imposing against Turkey.

“When you score a lot of goals and do not concede, it means the team is working well,” he said.

“We have to say thanks to our forwards and midfielders who are helping us by doing the dirty work.”

Left-back Leonardo Spinazzola says playing alongside Bonucci and Chiellini gives everyone confidence.

“When you are on the pitch, just to see Chiellini and Bonucci out there makes you feel more secure,” said Spinazzola.