BUFFON: FORGET MY FUTURE

GIANLUIGI BUFFON insisted reaching the World Cup was more important than his future, as he appealed for backing from Italy fans tonight.

The Azzurri captain, who had intended to retire from international football next summer, could play his 175th and final game if Italy fail to qualify this evening.

But the Juventus goalkeeper, 39, said: “The pressure is strong and we know how important this match against Sweden is for us, for the country, and for the history of this team.

“We can achieve the dream of overturning the first-leg defeat, which counts more than my personal story and my future in the national team.

“What matters is that the fans accept a few small mistakes – that’s how a player feels supported. If, on the other hand, we find ourselves whistled, it will have a negative effect.”