Buffon "reportedly" out of World Cup - 世足

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Buffon reportedly out of World Cup

Buffon was forced off the field at half-time during Italy's 1-1 draw with
Paraguay with what was later diagnosed as a sciatic nerve problem.

Italian football federation vice-president Demetrio Albertini said: "We are
confident that our goalkeeper will make a speedy recovery."

However, it appears doctors are struggling to diagnose the problem and
Italy's chief medic Enrico Castellacci said the problem is "serious", adding:
"At the moment, it's impossible to estimate when he might return."

Reports had suggested Buffon may be out for ten days, but it now appears his
tournament may be over. Italy may give Buffon a cortisone injection, but he
will require surgery on the disc that is pressing on the nerve.

On Wednesday, Buffon said: "I am very worried about my World Cup."

Palermo goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu is in line to replace Buffon if Italy
decide not to risk the Juventus 'keeper. Gazzetta dello Sport suggests the
problem may be chronic and that Juve are concerned that their prize asset's
value may have plummeted.

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more to follow
might be a big blow for the defending champion.

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