Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci remains confident in his team’s ability to defeat Spain despite admitting that Vicente del Bosque’s side are one of the best in the world.

Cesare Prandelli’s team will have their hands full when they host the world champions at Bari’s San Nicola stadium on Wednesday in an international friendly.

However, Bonucci, 24, believes that they can put one over their rivals.

“We’re playing against one of the strongest sides,” he said, according to Tuttomercatoweb.com

“It’s a stimulating challenge. But we don’t fear Spain, instead we simply respect them.

“The game could be dangerous on a physical level but we’re mentally ready for it. We’ll give our all and we are very motivated.”

The Juventus centre-back, who played for Bari during the 2009-10 season, is also hopeful that support from the home crowd will give them an edge over the Spaniards.

“I think that Bari, with over 40,000 tickets already sold, have answered what they think about the game,” Bonucci enthused.

“With a stadium that will be almost full to capacity, we’ll do all we can to give something back to the fans for their faith in us.”