Profile

In scoring the late winning goal against Scotland at Hampden Park that secured Italy's presence at UEFA EURO 2008, Christian Panucci crowned a glorious comeback to the national team after an absence of over three years. Now 35, the vastly experienced AS Roma defender provides cover at both right-back and in central defence.

Left first club Genoa CFC for AC Milan in 1993; won Scudetto and UEFA Champions League in first season.

Second Serie A title with Milan in 1996; joined Real Madrid CF midway through 1996/97, becoming first Italian to play for Spanish giants, and won Primera División; second UEFA Champions League success the following season, beating Juventus 1-0 in final.

Short spells at FC Internazionale Milano, Chelsea FC and AS Monaco FC preceded move to Roma in 2001.

Belated major tournament debut for Italy at 2002 FIFA World Cup (started all four matches); ever-present at UEFA EURO 2004.

Not selected during Marcello Lippi's two-year tenure – legacy of fall-out with coach at Inter.

Although a defender, scored on his UEFA Champions League debuts for Real Madrid, Chelsea and Roma.

Did you know?

Panucci did not go to EURO '96, the 1998 World Cup or UEFA EURO 2000 despite playing in the qualifying competition of each tournament, yet he played at the 2002 World Cup finals without appearing in any qualifiers.