Chiellini: The kids are alright

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Chiellini: The kids are alright
Monday 13 October, 2008

Azzurri defender Giorgio Chiellini believes a young Italy side can deliver against Montenegro on Wednesday night.

Marcello Lippi called up four new men for his latest squad and the new-look side earned a hard-fought draw in Bulgaria.

Now the world champions will be expected to take maximum points against Montenegro in Lecce and Chiellini insists they are up to the challenge.

“Look at Euro 2008 where so many young players were involved and Spain won the tournament with lads of my age,” the Juventus star stated.

“We have to win against Montenegro because the draw in Bulgaria was only good if we take three points in this one.

“How are the youngsters settling in? The atmosphere in this squad is similar to the Under-21 team and we're trying to make them feel at ease.”

Chiellini also commented on the crowd trouble in Sofia, which marred last Saturday's game.

“Politics needs to be kept away from the pitch,” he said. “Perhaps the punishments for the wrongdoers should be harsher.”