Italy striker Luca Toni is expected to miss the Euro 2008 qualifier against France in Milan.
Blow for Italy as Vieira returns for France
Italy striker Luca Toni is expected to miss the Euro 2008 qualifier against France in Milan.
But France's inspirational midfielder Patrick Vieira is likely to be fit for the encounter with the World Cup holders.
Toni is set to miss the game with a thigh injury, despite Italian doctors revealing their optimism over his fitness earlier this week.
Italy coach Roberto Donadoni confirmed the news about the Bayern Munich forward, but is hopeful of him playing a part in their next game on Wednesday.
"At this point it is more probable he'll be available for Ukraine," he said.
"He trained and the response was good, but it will be difficult to use him."
Vieira
Meanwhile Vieira, who has also been suffering with a thigh problem, looks to have recovered and is due to start for France despite his club Inter urging Les Bleus to rest the 31-year-old.
Vieira took part in a full training session ahead of the game in Milan.
However Arsenal defender William Gallas will definitely miss the Group B clash.
