Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has surprisingly dubbed the game against Estonia as the most difficult one during his tenure.

Group C leaders Italy play host to Estonia on 3rd June in the Euro 2012 qualifier, and even though a big win for the Azzurri look on the cards, Prandelli doesn’t feel that way.

“This is the most difficult game of my tenure,” Prandelli told reporters. “The game against Estonia will be decisive.

“I want a squad of players which will make sacrifices as this game will be fundamental. Historically speaking, Italy always suffer during matches in June and September.”

Italy are five points clear of rivals Serbia and Slovenia in Group C, with a game in hand, but Prandelli still sees the Estonia game as a very important.

“We’ve carried out fitness tests over the last few days to get some precise statistics,” he added.

“Once I have the full results then I’ll think about picking the team. A lot will depend on the physical condition. Seeing the importance of the tie, I want players mentally and physically fit.”

The former Fiorentina coach has warned the players that they need to be playing regular football in order to be selected in the future.

“From August those individuals who don’t play that often will find it tough to be selected for Italy,” he added.

“Hopefully we’ll be even closer to the European Championship by then and we have to be ready for it. This is just a general consideration, I’m not talking about any player in particular.”

Italy are odds-on favourites to beat Estonia in Modena, with Paddy Power paying 1.14 (1/7) on home win, whereas the Azzurri are 2.30 (13/10) with Victor Chandler to win the game with -2 European handicap.