The Southampton striker has gone off the boil after a superb start to the season but netted for his country on Tuesday night

Graziano Pelle admitted playing in the Premier League helped him cope during his goal drought – after ending it against England.

Striker Pelle’s header in Italy’s 1-1 draw against England was his first goal in nine games and just his second since December 20.

Pelle said: “Finally, I scored again. In England I have hit the woodwork nine times but I also know I should have scored more goals even if I was playing more for the team.

“If I went through such a negative moment in Italy, people would have criticised me whilst in England they always give you a chance – every game has its own history.”

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