Gianluigi Buffon has given Italy an injury scare on the eve of their opening World Cup clash against England as he twisted and injured his ankle while training.
The 36-year-old goalkeeper and Azzurri captain suffered the injury Friday night during a light one-hour session at Amazonia Arena, the scene of Saturday's Group D fixture, Xinhua reported.
Buffon did not appear at the obligatory pre-match conference with midfielder Antonio Candreva instead facing the media pack alongside manager Cesare Prandelli.
"He twisted his ankle lightly," said Prandelli, who played down the seriousness of the injury.
"He is receiving therapy at the moment but it's nothing serious."
Buffon's injury opens the door for Paris Saint-Germain's Salvatore Sirigu to add to his eight international matches for Italy. Uncapped 21-year-old Mattia Perin, who plays with Genoa, could also be considered.
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