There is “pessimism” filtering through from the Italy camp over Gigi Buffon’s chances of facing England tonight.
The Azzurri open their World Cup campaign in Manaus at 23.00 UK time (22.00 GMT).
There is “pessimism” filtering through from the Italy camp over Gigi Buffon’s chances of facing England tonight.
The Azzurri open their World Cup campaign in Manaus at 23.00 UK time (22.00 GMT).
Captain Buffon sprained his left ankle in last night’s training session at the Arena Amazonia and has been undergoing physiotherapy.
There is no official word from the Nazionale staff yet, but Sky Sport Italia claim there is “pessimism” filtering through from sources.
Buffon was spotted going into the hotel gym with physiotherapists and medical staff this morning after breakfast to perform tests.
It is reported the initial results were not positive, as there are fears the sprain might’ve also affected his left knee.
Salvatore Sirigu is ready to take over, although the Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper is not 100 per cent fit either due to bruised ribs.
The only other option would be Genoa youngster Mattia Perin, who has never made an official appearance for the senior Italy squad.