While Italy lost their captain Fabio Cannavaro, it remains unclear if French captain Patrick Vieira will lead his team into the European football championship. These two hardened players, 220 caps together, are important for the game and the group’s team spirit.

The French midfielder’s injury comes as no surprise; he endured a frustrating season in Italy, where he spent more time in the infirmary than on the field!

Even though Vieira contributed in seizing the Calcio (championship) towards the end of the season, his age (31) is beginning to weigh on his performance – to replace him, the French manager could count on Lyon’s Toulalan, impressive all through the season, but lacking in experience at this level. Domenech has until June 8, the day before the France vs. Romania match, to decide whether Vieira will be one of the 23. Domenech has called in Flamini for the time being.

The loss of Cannavaro, injured by one of his own teammates, is more troublesome for Italy, as long as the team’s defensive line remains dependant on the winner of the Ballon d’Or 2006. The Italian central defence line, which lost Nesta after the coronation in 2006, will need to resist the Dutch offensive wave from their very first Euro match. It’s after this encounter that we’ll see the impact of Cannavaro’s absence.

I think Patrick Vieira is now tactically dispensible. Midfielders such as Toulalan or Flamini are fit enough to play in his position. They’re just lacking in experience, though Makelele can compensate for that.