Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini has expressed his belief that England have the same identity as the team they beat in Euro 2012 despite numerous changes in players.

Cesare Prandelli's side knocked the Three Lions out of the Euros on penalties at the quarter-final stage two years ago, but the Juventus man has admitted that he and his teammates could be in for an even tougher task this time around.

Chiellini told reporters: "Over these two years we have both changed, we are rejuvenated, but I think the identity remains the same.

"They have brought a group on, a Liverpool contingent, who have done very well. Maybe as individuals they have changed more, compared to us, but their way of playing remains the same.

"It will be a tough match, they have great individual players like Rooney and Gerrard. Certainly, the weather factor will also be very important."

Italy and England face off in their Group D opener on Saturday.