Italy

The Juventus keeper has been struggling with a nerve problem in his back and was forced to come off at half time in the world champions’ unimpressive 1-1 draw against Paraguay on Monday.

The 32-year-old was confident the injury was only minor and he would be available for the Azzurri’s next Group F game against New Zealand on Saturday (Italy to win 4-0 – 10/1) but now there are suggestions he may miss the rest of the tournament.

A statement later released by the Italy camp read: “It’s impossible to estimate when he might return.”

If Buffon is ruled out, Federico Marchetti, who came on at the break against Paraguay, is expected to stay in goal as Marcelo Lippi’s men look for a better showing against New Zealand.

Italy have been criticised for their lacklustre display on Monday but Lippi was keen to stress the positives and insisted they deserved more than a point in their opening game.

“Italy is right here. We’re here tactically, physically, with our hearts, we’re here full stop,” he said.

“I just regret that we did not get the points we deserved, but sometimes that’s what happens, you get less than you deserve.”

He added: “The important thing is this was not a decisive game. What is important is that people now realise we are here and have got our act together.”

Bet on the World Cup and get £200. Click here to visit Bet365 and claim your free money.