Italy's World Cup hopes received a severe blow yesterday when first choice goalkeeper Angelo Peruzzi injured himself in training and will miss the finals.

"He will be out for at least four weeks," said team doctor Andrea Ferretti.

The Juventus goalkeeper pulled a muscle as he warmed up and collapsed to the ground.

"That is the end of my World Cup. Now I have to think four years ahead," he said. "I am heartbroken."

Fiorentina goalkeeper Francesco Toldo will be called up to replace Peruzzi , according to a tram a official, He is due to join the rest of the squad today. Gianluca Pagliuca of Inter Milan now takes over as first choice goalkeeper.