Barzagli respects Bendtner threat

Andrea Barzagli has warned his Italian international teammates that Denmark’s Nicklas Bendtner is a striker to be respected.

The Juventus forward has rarely featured for his new club following his deadline day switch from Arsenal, but Barzagli knows what he’s capable of.

“We’ll have to pay Bendtner some close attention,” the centre-back noted. “Italy haven’t seen him yet, but I face him in training everyday.

“He’s mobile, strong in the air and is dangerous with the ball at his feet.”

Italy face Denmark tonight in World Cup qualification and Barzagli is set to be partnered by Giorgio Chiellini, after Leonardo Bonucci played alongside him in the 3-1 win over Armenia on Friday.

“We’ve been playing together for years at Juventus and all three of us are interchangeable,” added the former Palermo stopper.

“We know each other well and playing in a four-man defence is not a problem either. We just need to make sure we win as this is a key game towards qualification.”