Francesco Totti has today pledged to recover from his broken ankle in time for the World Cup Finals to make Marcello Lippi’s Azzurri squad for Germany.

The Roma captain’s injury has made him a major doubt for the Azzurri squad for Germany 2006, but he’s determined to not miss out on this summer’s tournament.

“I can promise everyone that I will recover in time for the competition,” he told Italy’s Radio Due on Monday afternoon.

“I know that I have picked up a bad injury, but I’ll grit my teeth because I want to be there at all costs.”

The Roma No. 10 slumped to the ground after being fouled by Empoli’s veteran defender Richard Vanigli during yesterday’s 1-0 win for Roma.

But the Roma skipper has seen the replays, and has forgiven the Tuscan defender, who emotionally broke down, and burst into tears following the match.

“I’ve spoken to him,” said Totti. “He was very disappointed and explained to me that he didn’t want to do me any harm.

“I’ve seen the challenge on television a number of times and he is telling me the truth. I’ve already forgiven him.”

Totti is expected to be out of action for up to three months, but he insists he’s desperate to get started on his recovery.

“I’ll be going home on Tuesday,” he added from his hospital bed. “I’ll start physiotherapy on Wednesday.

“I repeat, I’ll give it my all.”

Totti’s enthusiasm will be welcomed by Italy boss Marcello Lippi who has admitted that he can’t replace Totti in the Italian side.

Bookmark/Search this post with:

delicious | digg | google | yahoo | technorati