Inter Milan midfielder Kristjan Asllani hopes to face teammate Nicolo Barella in Albania's Euros opener.
Barella is a doubt for Italy due to injury.
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Asllani said: "At this moment, Barella is one of the best midfielders in the world. Italy have a very strong squad, I consider them to be one of the best in circulation.
“If Barella doesn’t play, there will be another very strong player who we respect. Having said that, we must not step onto the field with any fear.
“I do hope Nicolò does play, because I like to face teammates, but above all it will mean he is fully fit and that is what I hope for him.”
Asllani also had a word for former club Empoli after they avoided Serie A relegation.
“I owe everything to Empoli. I arrived there when I was 6 years old and left when I was 20. It is always a pleasure when they achieve their targets.”