The trainer is happy with the Azzurri’s displays during the tournament, despite losing to Spain in the final, and believes playing well is the key to getting results in the future

Cesare Prandelli insists Italy must make sure their run to the Euro 2012 final was no flash in the pan by pressing on with their development.

The Azzurri proved many of their doubters wrong by reaching Sunday's final, where despite losing 4-0 to Spain, they nonetheless earned plaudits for pursuing an attacking approach throughout the tournament.

But while Prandelli is pleased with the efforts of his players in Poland and Ukraine, he has warned that they must continue to progress and not take "one step forward and two steps back".

Speaking to reporters, Prandelli said: "We must be proud of this Italy squad and our football. You journalists cheering me on is the sign that you are are starting believe in our project.

"We are an old country and we need to develop. The result of the final must not change our mind about change, we must not make one step forward and two steps back.

“Maybe it will be difficult, but we have to play well and get results at the same time. We must manage the national team like a club."