Italy midfielder Andrea Pirlo has played down the significance of the Manaus climate ahead of their meeting with England at the World Cup on Saturday.

The Azzurri meet Roy Hodgson's men in the first game of their respective group campaigns, and the Juventus playmaker thinks that the humidity of the Brazil jungle won't be as big a factor as some have suggested.

He told reporters: "It will be very hot in Manaus for us, just as it will be for England, so it's not a problem for one team more than another.

"We are preparing well in terms of training, food and hydration, so those elements can help.

"We are 23 players at the disposal of the coach (Cesare Prandelli) and know to go all the way we need a contribution from everyone, as we learned in 2006. Even 10 minutes can be enough to make a decisive contribution."

Pirlo recently signed a contract extension with Serie A champions Juventus.

Written by
Paul Gorst