Cannavaro closes in on Maldini Italian record

Italian skipper Fabio Cannavaro said Wednesday that the international appearances record of Paolo Maldini, who played 126 times for the world champions, is coming into reach.

"I've not really thought about it, to be honest - but records are there to be broken," said 35-year-old defender Cannavaro who is eight games away from levelling Maldini's mark.

"The years go by but I've no intention of packing it in yet," said the Real Madrid star in the national squad's get together at Florence ahead of Saturday's World Cup qualifier with Bulgaria in Sofia.

"As long as I am called up I'll always arrive full of enthusiasm. For me it is an honour to pull on the Italian shirt." Maldini, five years Cannavaro's senior, is still in action with AC Milan.

But Cannavaro says that the punishing schedule of today's game means he is looking after himself and conscious of the need not to overdo things.

"I am managing things better this season. I have played in five of seven matches for Real and that's good.

"It's better to play 40 matches on form than 60 on average form."

ROME, Thursday (AFP)