“This isn’t an extraordinary moment in terms of quality but lots of young players are emerging and we have to play a role in this. I’m speeding up the process as we change between generations, also because we’ve had lots of defections.” This was what Gian Piero Ventura had to say about the call-ups for the likes of Cataldi, Gagliardini and Politano while other youngsters such as Barreca, Conti and Caldara are expected to play a role in the near future. “We’re starting on a new journey, we’re taking note of what they offer in the bigger picture at the moment. These boys will be seen up close, they have to be able to step up quickly to join us. Gagliardini probably wouldn’t have had any hopes of getting an Italy call-up a year ago but he’s earned it on the pitch.”  After away wins against Israel, FYR Macedonia and a home draw against Spain, Italy will go to Vaduz in search of three points which will keep them top of Group G alongside La Furia Roja. “This Liechtenstein game is winnable, but we’ll prepare carefully to avoid surprises,” added Ventura. “They lost 8-0 to Spain but they were in the game for 55 minutes.” Three days later, the Azzurri will host Germany in Milan for an iconic friendly. “At the moment, they’re the strongest and most well-organised team so without worrying about the result, it will be an important test for us to monitor our progress.”  Ventura also gave his thoughts on Serie A: “As a spectacle, it’s not the best season compared to recent years.” He also spoke about other leagues. Sansone (Villarreal), Darmian (Manchester United), Zaza (West Ham United) and Verratti from the current squad all play abroad. “Verratti is playing for PSG but he’s still only 22. He’s an asset for Italy but we also have to give him time. The situation is the same for Zaza and Gabbiadini, they’re not going through the best of times but the Italy shirt could give them a chance to get back to their usual standards and express themselves as they know how.”  It was also added the Pellé is not permanently banned from the squad: “It’s a pause to allow him to reflect on things.” Ventura also confirmed that the door remains open for Balotelli: “I’ll have a chat with him to see if he wants to discuss things.” He is also enjoying the form of his two strikers Belotti and Immobile: “They’re both doing well and not just in terms of their statistics, but their performances also.”