Legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has suggested he will bring an end to his illustrious playing career after the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

The Italy and Juventus shot-stopper, who turns 38 on Thursday, has enjoyed a trophy-laden career which has seen him win silverware with both club and country.

Buffon has amassed 154 international caps for Italy and represented his country in four World Cups after making his debut in 1997.

Legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has suggested he will retire after the 2018 World Cup in Russia

The shot-stopper (pictured after Juventus' win at Lazio last month) has enjoyed a trophy-laden career

The 37-year-old was part of the Italy side who won the World Cup in 2006 after beating France 5-3 on penalties in Germany.

However, the legendary goalkeeper has now admitted the World Cup in Russia could bring an end to his playing career.

'I will try to make the next World Cup and then it may be time to close the door,' said Buffon. 'It will almost certainly be at the end of the 2018 World Cup.'

On a club level the goalkeeper, who begun his career at Parma before joining Juventus in 2001, has also enjoyed silverware success.

Since arriving at the Italian giants, Buffon has made over 550 appearances and helped the club secure six Serie A titles.

BUFFON HONOURS Parma UEFA Cup: 1998–99 Coppa Italia: 1998–99 Supercoppa Italiana: 1999 Juventus Serie A: 2001–02, 2002–03, 2011–12, 2012–13, 2013–14, 2014–15 Serie B: 2006–07 Coppa Italia: 2014–15 Italian Super Cup: 2002, 2003, 2012, 2013, 2015 Italy FIFA World Cup: 2006 UEFA Under 21 European Championship: 1996 Mediterranean Games: 1997 Advertisement

The 37-year-old puts his body on the line to prevent Manchester City star Sergio Aguero from scoring