Italy defender Andrea Barzagli has admitted that he is wary of the threat England will pose when the two sides meet in their World Cup opener on Saturday.

The two teams last met in the second round of Euro 2012, with the Azzurri eliminating the Three Lions via a penalty shootout following a 0-0 draw in Kiev.

However, Italy have struggled in the build-up to this summer's tournament in Brazil, and Barzagli acknowledged that England are capable of hurting his side, particularly from set pieces.

"In recent times, we have given away more goals than we wanted, but the important thing is to give solidity to our defence," Barzagli is quoted as saying by PA.

"Against England, we will have to be very careful on dead-ball situations. They are very dangerous in the area and these are important details where we must not make mistakes."

Barzagli also played down concerns over the conditions both sides will face in Manaus.