Gianluigi Buffon has revealed he is delighted to be playing at the age of 37.
The Juventus goalkeeper will earn his 150th cap for Italy should he play against Bulgaria this weekend and Buffon is aiming to be at the next World Cup in Russia in 2018.
“To be playing at my age gives me great satisfaction. I think I have earned it though my talent and qualities as a player,” Buffon told the BBC.
“Also I think it is a reflection of the professionalism, self-sacrifice and perseverance I have always had when playing football.
“If you love your job and always demand the best from yourself then you have the chance to write yourself into the history of football.
“I look around and feel like smiling because when everyone talks about a new generation, new players starting their international career, I look in the mirror and think ‘you’re still here’ so no everything has changed.
“Without doubt winning the World Cup in 2006 is the highlight of my career.
“It was an intense month that created a great sense of achievement and united the nation.
“In Italy we feel truly united when we play in a World Cup or playing for the national team.
“If I can play in a sixth World Cup, that would be extraordinary and historic.
“For this to happen I would want to be in the same form and shape that I am in now.
“If I can be in that way, then I would deserve to be there, otherwise I will just stay at home.”
