Scott relishing Pirlo test

Scott Parker is looking ahead to a showdown with Italian great Andrea Pirlo at Euro 2012 tonight.

The Juventus midfielder has impressed again in the tournament and is likely to be the Azzurri's key man in the central areas against England in the eagerly-awaited quarter-final clash in Kiev.

A World Cup winner with almost 100 caps to his name, Pirlo built his reputation in 10 years with AC Milan before switching to Juventus last season – and helping the Vecchia Signora to an unbeaten Seria A title.

Now he’s up against Scott and Steven Gerrard as the teams fight for the right to face Germany in the semi-finals.

“As a kid and when you play football, you want to pit your wits against the best,” said Scott, who has started England’s three matches so far.

“Pirlo is one of those - the clips I have seen of him in this tournament, his passing ability, his control of the game, is fantastic.

“I am really looking forward to the game. You always look forward to playing against the best. I am sure every player looks at it in their positions, defenders looking at forwards, and I am looking at what I will be up against.

“Italy have played three in there at times and they have got bundles of experience. They are very good players but so is the whole team. The front players are very tricky as well, so it is going to be a tough game.”