Italians wait on Nesta fitness

The Italian team will have to wait until Wednesday before knowing whether central defender Alessandro Nesta will be fit to face Mexico on Thursday.

The 26-year-old Lazio stopper hobbled off the pitch during the Croatia game on Saturday to be replaced by Marco Materazzi after just 20 minutes.

Nesta had a scan on his right foot and, as was originally thought, the player does not have a fractured bone in his foot - just severe bruising.

The head of the Italian medical staff, Andrea Ferretti, refused to make a prediction on the player’s recovery, however, until after a couple of days’ rest.

‘‘This type of pathology can improve suddenly, so we have to wait before making any hasty decisions about recovery times,’’ said Ferretti.

With Nesta off the pitch Italy’s defence looked uncharacteristically shaky, so after conceding two late goals to Croatia to lose the game 2-1, Italy will be hoping Nesta can recover in time for the decisive match against Mexico.

Italy, one of the pre-tournament favourites, now need a win from their final game to be sure of qualification to the next round from Group G.

Cristiano Zanetti and Gigi DiBiagio are also doubts for Thursday with a foot injury and neck injury respectively.