Inter midfielder Nicolo Barella’s impressive display against Salernitana in Serie A on Friday evening will have been noted not just by his Inter coach, but also by his coach for the Italian national team.

This is highlighted in today’s print edition of Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, who note that Azzurri boss Roberto Mancini will be particularly impressed with the creativity on display from the 25-year-old.

Barella has been well-established as a regular starter in the Italian national team for a couple years now, but the competition for places is nevertheless fierce given the number of quality Italian midfielders in his age group.

The 25-year-old has not always been consistent this season, with fatigue appearing to show at times due to the fact that he is ever-present for both club and country in a packed fixture schedule.

However, the midfielder announced his return to form with his two assists and dominance of the midfield battle against Salernitana.

Mancini will be among those who have been most keenly watching him in that match given that the Azzurri have massive World Cup qualifying playoffs just on the horizon.