AC Milan defender Nesta rules out Italy return

AC Milan center back Alessandro Nesta has been enjoying something of a renaissance with the Rossoneri this year, as he has avoided the treatment room and is creating a formidable partnership with Thiago Silva.

Although Italy did not lose a match in its World Cup qualifying group and punched its ticket to South Africa with a game to spare, many fans have been calling for Nesta to return to the national setup along with Roma's Francesco Totti.

While Totti is believed to be considering the option of returning, Nesta has ruled out the possibility.

"Of course, as I have always done in my life, I will support the national team in the next World Cup," the 33-year-old told Goal.com Italia. "But one thing is equally certain: I will not return to the national team as a player."

Nesta will have to be at his very best for Milan when it takes on Real Madrid in the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday.