Now aged 31, Maldini appears to have lost some of the pace which characterised his foraging runs down the wing, but his ability is so great that his place is not under any serious threat.

An automatic selection since his debut in 1988, he has now amassed over 100 caps, chipping in with seven goals, and he looks certain to demolish Dino Zoff's record of 112 appearances.

Such longevity in the Azzurri side is testimony to Maldini's talent and leadership.

He has played as a libero and in central defence, but it's as a left-sided defender that he has demonstrated the technical skill, awareness and composure that has made him a class apart.

A calming and charismatic leader on the pitch, Maldini will be essential to Italy's Euro performances due to his talismanic stature within the side.

His glittering international career has been matched at domestic level where he has won six Scudetti and three European Cups.