Player Talk : Buffon

Buffon has back problems
Friday 25 January, 2008

Gigi Buffon may miss Juventus’ game against Livorno this weekend due to a potentially serious back problem.

The Azzurri custodian missed the Coppa Italia quarter-final first leg against Inter due to pain in his lower back, but had hoped to return for the trip to the Stadio Armando Picchi this weekend.

However, the problem seems to be getting worse and scans have revealed a disc protrusion.

Although not a serious condition in itself, a disc protrusion can lead to a hernia, which would require surgery and between one month and three months on the sidelines.

Buffon spent yesterday afternoon receiving physiotherapy and a range of massages to try and relax his back, but the only cure to the problem is rest.

While there is a chance that the former Parma shot-stopper may begin the game against Livorno, Emanuele Belardi is more likely to step in.

Meanwhile, there is cautious optimism over midfielder Marco Marchionni, who picked up a foot injury after a clash with Maxwell on Wednesday.

There had been fears that the Roman star may have broken his fifth metatarsal and could be out for the season, but it now seems that the damage is less severe.

However, a micro-fracture cannot be ruled out and that could keep Marchionni out for over a month.

* channel4