Gigi Buffon admits the tactical awareness of Roma coach Daniele de Rossi has surprised him.

The pair played together for Italy.

Buffon said at an awards function yesterday: "I was certainly not surprised by the man, as I was sure he would create that empathic link with his players, especially at Roma.

“But if there's one thing that surprised me, it's the fine way he managed to read some tactical situations during matches, the way he puts his team out in a way that gets the best out of the individual players.

"He deserves so much credit for all he is doing."