The Italian Football Federation have said they will bid to host the 2016 European Championship.

Giancarlo Abete, the federation's president, said hosting the tournament could help rejuvenate the national team.

"Naturally Italy is interested because we cannot shun the challenge of major international events and because we must start virtuous circles that give hope to our football," he told Rai radio.

"We will talk about it at a federation board meeting. We have until March 9 to present a bid."

Italy bid to host 2012, with Poland and Ukraine set to co-host that tournament.

Italy's problems with football hooliganism was considered a reason why they missed out, but with the Championship expanding from 16 to 24 teams the nations capable of hosting the event is dwindling.

Italy will face competition from France for the rights to host the tournament, though Scotland and Wales have backed out of a joint bid.