Happy 40th birthday Zanetti!

By Football Italia staff

Today Inter captain and Argentina legend Javier Zanetti celebrates his 40th birthday. “I can start running next week.”

The right-back was born in Buenos Aires on August 10 1973 and has been playing for the Nerazzurri since 1995.

He was appointed captain in 1999 and shattered several records, to date notching up 845 appearances for the club with 21 goals. In all competition, he has played over 1,100 matches.

‘Pupi’ Zanetti is currently out injured after snapping his Achilles tendon in April, but has pledged to make his comeback and continue his career.

Doctors expect him to return to the squad in October and he resumed training on a personalised schedule two weeks ago.

“The work is going well and I’m happy that I was able to train in America with the team, as working with teammates is something else,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“The tendon is responding according to schedule. I can start running a bit on Friday or Saturday next week.

“I won’t make any other predictions, as I honestly don’t know when I can be back on the pitch. I see being able to run again as already a great step forward.

“What would I like for my 40th birthday? How about a fourth child?” he laughed.

Zanetti’s contract was recently renewed and runs until June 30 2014.

“Happy birthday captain,” read a message on the official Inter website.

“We’re waiting for you on the pitch. As a gift, you have a corner in our hearts all to yourself.”

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