Can anyone remember a time when Gianluigi Buffon wasn't one of the best goalkeepers in the world?

If you do, you have a pretty long memory, because the Italian godfather of shot-stopping has been in the business for an absolute age.Having made his first professional appearance way back in 1995, Buffon has enjoyed one of the longest and most fruitful careers the game has ever seen.

He's pulled on the famous black and white strip of Juventus 657 times, guarded the posts for Parma 220 times, while a short stint at PSG saw him make 25 appearances.

He has come agonizingly close on several occasions but has never quite managed to clear that final hurdle.

Just imagine if - 900 caps into his career and at the age 41 - Buffon were to help Juventus end their European duck and claim the prize that has eluded him for so long.

Go on Gigi - get it done lad.