Italy goalkeeper Gigi Buffon has insisted that throwing youngsters into the national side will not magically solve the Azzurri's problems.

Italy crashed out of the Confederations Cup last night after a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Brazil. It only increased the argument that Italy need to freshen up their aging squad.

Buffon is unconvinced however that Italy have enough youngsters who are ready to step up and perform at the highest level.

“There is a desire and the hope that our younger players can take a step up to give us a hand,” said the No 1.

“However, you have to realise that playing in the national shirt during these games is a lot different from playing in the League at home. It isn’t easy because you need experience and personality.

“Added to that, I don’t see a lot of youngsters around who can take the baton, perhaps because our domestic championship has become more modest and less competitive in recent years.”

The veteran keeper was asked about the Inter pair of Davide Santon and Maro Balotelli, who are expected to be the next generation of Italian internationals.

“Santon picked up a muscle problem in training.

“As for Balotelli, he can’t be everywhere at once and for now he is with the Under-21 international set up.”

Instead of testing out some younger players, boss Marcello Lippi stuck with many of the team who lifted the World Cup back in 2006. Defeats against Egypt and Brazil meant Italy were knocked out of the tournament.

“It was right that we were knocked out,” Buffon added. “We are in a delicate moment where we are not competitive.

“When we press our opponents and give everything then we are a great team, but without those characteristics we are vulnerable.

“We hope this terrible showing helps us for the future.”