[KillerMax]

Alessandro Nesta is on the road to recovery and is optimistic that he will be ready for the start of the season.

The defender has not played since the Italian World Cup match against the Czech Republic in June when he suffered a recurrence of a groin strain.

“I am saddened of how my World Cup went,” said the 30-year-old to Milan Channel. “I was only able to play two matches because of my injury.

“I was very disappointed that I couldn’t take part in exciting challenges like the match against Germany or the Final with France.

“I really tried to recover for the match against the host nation and even if I didn’t make it, I feel I am part of the Azzurri triumph,” added Nesta.

The former Lazio captain has been left out of the Italy squad for their first two qualifiers against Lithuania and France, but he’ll have his boost on again this week.

“I am now recovering and will discuss with Milan’s medical staff if I can take part in the Tim Trophy [scheduled for Thursday at San Siro against Inter and Juventus].

“What would I like to win next year? This team is made for the Champions League and I would love to win it,” he stated.

“However, we will have to start out aiming at all possible goals, seeing where that will take us at the end.”

Milan are set to start the 2006-07 Serie A with an eight-point penalty because of their involvement in the Calciopoli scandal.


Football Italia.

[Costacurta]

Nesta will have to remain fully fit for the whole season if we are to have any chance of avoiding a defensive disaster. He is the world's last great Central Defender I feel, and we don't really have anyone proper to partner him. I know Carlo will stick with Kaladze, but we need a proper CB. Barzagli or Gallas please. U've got less than 24 hrs now Milan!