Sunderland winger Emanuele Giaccherini is confident of his place in Italy coach Cesare Prandelli's World Cup plans.

Giaccherini penned a four-year deal with the Wearsiders and does not believe the move will hamper his chances of a place at next year's World Cup.

"I came here to play," he said. "At Juventus I was always called up to the national team.

"I had my space in the national team. But for a player, I think there is a lot of pride in playing and showing your value.

"I called the Mister (Italy boss Cesare Prandelli) and I said I was coming here and he wished me the best of luck. And he told me if I continue like this [to play] there wouldn't be any problems."