Italy head coach Antonio Conte has claimed that he needs to be given more support by Serie A clubs.

Conte believes that clubs in the top tier of Italian football are harming the progress of the national side as they are unwilling to allow players to spend more time with him, and he is hopeful of holding meetings with the league to discuss the current situation.

"It requires patience to grow as it is not a good moment for Italian football, but even then, we won five and drew one," the Azzurri boss told Rai Sport. "We will try to work, to have a few meetings and to understand the situation in general.

"I need to work with these lads, as being without them for four months is a problem.

"If the national team comes at the bottom of the pile, then at least let's state that and everyone can take responsibility for that situation."

Stefano Okaka scored the only goal as Italy beat Albania 1-0 in a friendly on Tuesday night.