Italy will be taking on Japan in a crucial confederations cup match knowing that they will have the opportunity to seal a place in the semifinals of the tournament with a victory.

However, it is easier said than done according to Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi, who has once again regained his first-team spot within the national team. Japan may be the underdogs going into the match, but the presence of players like Shinji Kagawa makes them extremely dangerous according to De Rossi. The Manchester United midfield man is regarded as one of the finest playmakers with the Japanese squad.

He is also capable of scoring goals as well. Italy come on the back of a 2-1 over Mexico in the opening game. De Rossi also has said that he was certainly not worried about regaining a place in the national team. After an indifferent season with Roma, manager Cesare Prandelli dropped him for crucial matches in recent times. As result, it was heavily doubted whether he would be part of the Italian squad at the Confederations cup. Even though De Rossi acknowledged that there are several youngsters coming through, he believes that he still has something to offer to the national team.

“I know three or four of the Japanese players. The one people talk about the most is Kagawa, so I believe him to be the star, even if they have many good players and great tactical organisation that allows them to be dangerous. Let’s just say nobody is ever certain of their place in the national side. There are so many talented youngsters coming out, but I believe in my potential and my ability to regenerate in these competitions,” said de Rossi ahead of the match with Japan. He is one yellow card away from being suspended for the final group match.