Italy playmaker Francesco Totti says his team fear no-one and can go all the way in the World Cup.

Totti was one of the inspirations behind Italy's comfortable 2-0 win over Ecuador in their opening group G match on Monday, setting up the first of Christian Vieri's two goals and showing that he is close to being back to his best after two months out with injury.

The Italy number 10 said he has not had the chance to see much of the World Cup so far, but believes his side have everything in place to make it to the final.

"I haven't seen many matches but Italy shouldn't fear anyone because we can go all the way," Totti told reporters after training on Wednesday.

Ominously for Italy's opponents, Totti said that he was not yet firing on all cylinders.

"I am not at full power yet, but I am well, physically and mentally well, that is the important thing for a player," he said.

Totti's talent first emerged to an international audience at the 2000 European Championships and the

memory of Italy's 'golden goal' defeat to France in the final is clearly an extra motivating factor for the striker.

"After Euro 2000 I want to prove myself to the world with a win," said the forward, whose reputation has continued to grow since he helped his club AS Roma to win the Italian title in 2001.

"I think I have done well in Europe, in the Champions League and in those European Championships, and I have gained a bit more consideration outside Italy," Totti said.

Totti's precise role in the team is one of the factors being considered by Italy coach Giovanni Trapattoni ahead of Saturday's second game against Croatia.

But the player says whether he plays as a striker again or in his more familiar role behind the front two is not a worry, although he clearly prefers the freedom of the playmaker position.

"Maybe the coach will want to change something but I am happy whatever role I play -- I hope to be in full form," said Totti.

"I definitely like to play behind the two forwards but the important thing

is to play. Trapattoni has a lot of forwards and can choose whatever formation he wants."

Vieri is certain to be one of those chosen against Croatia after his impressive opening showing against Ecuador, and Totti was full of praise for the burly target man.

"Vieri has charisma he has the desire to make himself felt. I think Bobo is in good shape and will be hard to stop. He really is an impressive force," said Totti.

Totti's glamorous TV celebrity girlfriend Ilary Blasi and his mother have travelled to Sendai to support the player, something that clearly pleases him.

"I have people beside me who love me. I'm happy they are here with me, they are people I care about," he said.

Totti laughed off a suggestion that the presence of his mother could lead to him being labelled a 'mummy's boy'.

"There is no problem. Mamma is always Mamma," he said.