Italy coach Marcello Lippi has received a boost, with Azzurri and Roma striker Francesco Totti back playing football after suffering a broken ankle in February.

Totti sustained the injury after a tackle by Empoli’s veteran defender Richard Vanigli in a Serie A match in February against Empoli.

But the 29-year-old Azzurri star has come back to fitness slightly earlier than expected and took part in a practice match for Roma on Thursday against Italian Serie C side Cisco Lodigiani.

Totti played a total 74 minutes and has now set his sights on a quick comeback to first-team play.

"It was a great feeling to be back on the pitch," Totti told the official Roma website. "I hope to return as quickly as possible."

Totti now hopes to be involved in next Wednesday's Coppa Italia final with Internazionale.

He said: "I have spoken with coach Luciano Spalletti and we have decided that I will train on Saturday and Sunday and on Wednesday we will decide if I will play against Inter or if it is better to wait a few more days."

Totti is delighted he will be coming back to fitness in time to play in the World Cup, saying: "Many people have said that I would not make it, but instead I have demonstrated the Roman character. I have worked a lot and will make a successful recovery soon."

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