Cagliari midfielder Davide Biondini admits he was taken by surprise at being included in Marcello Lippi's Italy squad for Saturday's friendly against the Netherlands.

The 26-year-old said: "I could not believe it. It has taken me by surprise and, perhaps for that reason, it feels even better. This is the best thing anyone can ever hope for. It's a great honour and I am very happy."

Biondoni has greatly contributed to the Sardinian outfit's eighth position in the standings, making 12 league starts for Massimiliano Allegri's side.

The ex-Vicenza player has thanked Cagliari for their faith in him.

"This call-up is a reward, not only for me but for my club," said Biondini. "For the last two years Cagliari have been doing well in Serie A and if I have made the national team it is thanks to my team-mates, my coach and my club."

Meanwhile, Riccardo Montolivo will replace injured midfielder Daniele De Rossi for Italy's final two matches of the year. The 24-year-old has made nine appearances for I Azzurri since making his debut with the senior side in October 2007.

De Rossi suffered a fractured cheekbone during Roma's 1-1 draw against Inter Milan and underwent surgery in Rome today.