Few footballers on the planet command as much respect as Andrea Pirlo.The 37-year-old, whose beard and flowing locks make him instantly recognisable, enjoyed a fabulous career in Europe before moving to America in 2015 to see out the final years of his career with New York City FC.Pirlo, whose final match in European football was for Juventus against Barcelona in the 2014-15 Champions League final, is still a midfielder with wonderful technique - but you have to wonder if his legs have now gone.Pirlo was in action for NYCFC against San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday evening - and his attempts at preventing the opening goal were nothing short of scandalous.Either the Italian’s legs have gone or he simply couldn’t be bothered. Despite the fact he’s not a defensively-minded player, you can’t help but feel he could - and should - have done a lot better in this situation. NYCFC have every right to expect a bit more effort considering they’re paying him a cool $5.91 million yearly salary.

Pirlo's awful 'attempt' at defending

Pirlo gives his goalkeeper, Sean Johnson, an awkward back-pass...

He then stands around on the edge of the box, failing to anticipate that his teammate, Alexander Callens, would fail to control the looping ball.

In the process, he leaves Marco Urena free inside the box.

The Costa Rican striker then turns away from Pirlo with a simply feint before slotting the ball into the net.

Video: Pirlo's laughable attempt at defending

Watch Pirlo’s terrible defending here…

Reaction on Twitter

Here's what people on Twitter were saying after the goal...

NYCFC still won 2-1

Fortunately for the former Serie A star, goals either side of half-time from Jack Harrison and Thomas McNamara scored a 2-1 victory for the hosts at the Yankee Stadium.

Patrick Vieira’s side currently find themselves third in the MLS Eastern Conference table, three points behind Columbus Crew, who have played one more game.

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