Italy coach Cesare Prandelli was pleased with his players' performance against England on Wednesday despite their defeat.

The Azzurri went down 2-1 to the Three Lions in Bern in a friendly international despite taking the lead through Daniele De Rossi on 15 minutes, as goals from Phil Jagielka and Jermain Defoe saw Roy Hodgson's side through.

However, Prandelli was satisfied with what he saw of his players in Switzerland.

"We showed character and must continue along this path," Prandelli told RAI Sport. "I liked the performance.

"We have to understand which young players have the right qualities, as we have to look to the future.

"Obviously those who played at Euro 2012 will have the chance to continue, but we must also consider the future of the Nazionale."

This was the first game Italy had featured in since their defeat to Spain in the final of Euro 2012 in July.