Keeper Gianluigi Buffon ready to come out of retirement for Italy

Gianluigi Buffon

Italy goalkeeping legend Gianluigi Buffon confirmed yesterday he is ready to come out of international retirement if he is called up for friendlies against England and Argentina. Buffon called time on his international career after Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup in Russia. But Italy interim national coach Luigi Di Biagio said on Monday he was ready to recall Buffon for friendlies against Argentina and England on March 23 and 27. "I had thought about going on holiday for a few days with my family, but when the national team needs you, you must be present and not desert them," Buffon said.

"There's nothing to add to Di Biagio's words other than I feel a sense of responsibility and loyalty which I must give to the national team in this transitional moment," he continued. "I repeat, it's a way of showing loyalty and a sense of responsibility towards Italy. I think that any experienced player can be useful at the start, even if it's just to give advice to the young ones."

Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here

Download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get updates on all the latest and trending stories on the go