Intro:

Striker Mario Balotelli says Italy need to focus on their own strengths rather than worry about other teams as they prepare for the European Championship.

Script:

Italy's modern football team have been struggling to match the successes of the past, but a talented new generation has given the nation a new hope.

The Azzurri are looking for an improvement from the 2010 World Cup where, as defending champions, they went out in the group stages.

Striker Mario Balotelli has just won the English Premier League with Manchester City, but lost his place in their side towards the end of the season after a string of erratic moments both on and off the field.

However the 21-year old says he needs to mature only as a footballer.

SOUNDBITE (Italian): Mario Balotelli, Italy

"If I have to grow up, maybe I have do it about tactics and of course my technique, as every young player improves over the years. Regarding my behaviour, sincerely, I'm getting a bit tired of hearing about this."

Italy have been drawn in a strong Group C alongside defending champions and World Cup winners Spain, as well as Croatia and Ireland, managed by former Azzurri boss Giovanni Trapattoni.

The Spanish are red hot favourites to retain their title, but Balotelli says his side should focus on their own strengths.

SOUNDBITE (Italian): Mario Balotelli, Italy

"Spain is one of the strongest teams, if not the very strongest. I think they are the best team, but we have to look at ourselves and have the knowledge we are strong and that our team is also one of the best. Therefore there's no need to look too much at the other teams, we just have to play our game and that's it."

Italy kick off their Euro 2012 campaign against Spain in Gdansk on 10 June.