Livorno midfielder Antonio Candreva admitted his first call-up to the Italy squad came as a surprise.

The 22-year-old made his Serie A debut this season and has proved to be one of the revelations in Italy's top flight this term.

His performances for the promoted outfit have not gone unnoticed with Candreva having been included in Marcello Lippi's squad for Saturday's friendly against Holland and the match against Sweden four days later.

Candreva, who was a regular member of Italy's under-21 squad, said: "I didn't expect it. I still don't believe it.

"It's a wonderful thing to be a part of a group of champions. I can't wait.

"This is my first year in Serie A and I have to thank Lippi, who has given me the chance to play with the Azzurri."

Candreva has played 11 league games so far this season for Livorno, who lie 18th in the standings.

He is not dreaming about going to the World Cup just yet, and his main priority is still helping his club defend their top flight status.

"I am not thinking about the World Cup," he said. "There are so many players that have been on the national team radar and who have more experience than me.

"I am just at the beginning and I want to prove my worth.

"I want to enjoy the experience and keep doing well for Livorno in order to defend our Serie A status this season."