After swapping Pescara for Paris-Saint Germain FC, promising Italy midfielder Marco Verratti has gone from strength to strength and is poised to make his mark against Armenia on Friday, Oct 12.

After leaving Pescara, the 19-year-old has made a seamless transition to life at Paris-Saint Germain FC, establishing himself as a fans' favourite. Verratti, who was handed his senior Italy debut by coach Cesare Prandelli against England in August, oozes patriotism and is eager to make his mark on the international stage.

"At the moment I am focusing on the present. I am desperate to represent the national team even if that means I end up playing in goal," he said, according to UEFA.com.

The diminutive midfielder, who began as a traditional No10, redefined his role during Pescara's promotion-winning campaign, evolving into a deep-lying playmaker in the mould of Andrea Pirlo. Touted as long-term replacement for the revered Juventus player, Verratti remains grounded and very much his own man. "I don't feel important," he said. "I am lucky enough to be in the national team at 19 and this is something that doesn't happen to most players. I can only be myself and try to improve, that's the only goal a player of my age should strive for. I don't know if I am a player for the future, I have to think about the present."

After collecting four points from their opening two FIFA World Cup Group B qualifiers against Bulgaria and Malta, Italy travel to Armenia on Friday and Prandelli is keen to find a place for Verratti in his team. "I think he can play alongside Pirlo, maybe slightly in front of him. They could even switch positions during the game," said the tactician." Verratti added: "I played a few games behind the striker at Pescara last season so I see myself as a versatile player. But, of course, I will play anywhere for Italy."