Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is expected to be out of action until the New Year after injurying his toe in training.

Buffon, who has missed most of the seasson because of a shoulder injury sustained in apre-season friendly game against Milan, is expected to be fit for the away trip to Palermo on January 7.

He returned to action in Juve’s Italian Cup tie against Fiorentina two weeks ago, but afterwards admitted he did not feel ready to replace reserve keeper Christian Abbiati on a full-time basis.

Despite his absence, Juventus currently lead Serie A by 10 points from nearest challengers Inter and Fiorentina.

Subscribe to World Soccer – The essential football magazine