Totti upbeat about injury, says Roma coach

Francesco Totti is confident that he will return to full fitness in time to take part in Italy’s World Cup campaign this summer, according to Roma coach Luciano Spalletti.

Totti suffered a broken fibula and damaged ankle ligaments in Roma’s League win over Empoli at the weekend but coach Spalletti insists Totti remains upbeat about his chances of competing at the World Cup.

“Francesco is already talking about his comeback,” Spalletti said after visiting Totti at a Rome hospital today.

“He’s calm, joking and making light of his situation. I was expecting him to be depressed, but instead he’s in a good mood.

“He joked that his son Cristian will take his place for Roma against Lazio next Sunday.”

But Italy coach Marcello Lippi was less positive, recognising the possibility that Totti may not recover in time for the World Cup.

“We will do our utmost to help him recover in time,” Lippi said. “It’s too early to say how long it will take for him to recover, but I hope there is enough time.

“It would be a great shame if he doesn’t make it to Germany. He is a very important player for Italy.”