Gigi Buffon: Italy ready for Euros despite latest betting scandal

Gianluigi Buffon is confident that Italy are in good shape ahead of Euro 2012 despite a fresh betting scandal.

Preparations for the tournament are reminiscent of the summer of 2006 preceding Italy's fourth World Cup crown.

"Things are going well and we'll enter the competition with the desire to win it," the goalkeeper stated at Coverciano on Wednesday. "That is the reason why we are all here...

"There is nobody in the squad today that has been directly touched by what has occurred during these past few days."

The man often described as the best goalkeeper in the world has been criticised for expressing his views with regard to the scandal and the way in which the media have reported it.

"Democracy and freedom, including that of thought, are the first things that should be preserved in life. Then one must accept any subsequent criticism."

Italy begin the tournament against reigning Champions Spain on June 10, before ties against Croatia and the Republic of Ireland.

"I think Croatia could be a bit of a surprise," the Juventus hero continued. "They have some top class players. And I fear Ivica Olic as he scored against me in World Cup 2002."