Italy defender Alessandro Nesta has been ruled out of Sunday's World Cup final through injury.

Nesta has been struggling with a recurring thigh injury since the start of the tournament.

Azzurri coach Marcello Lippi had hoped to have Nesta back for the clash against France after he missed the last three games with the problem.

Italy team doctor Enrico Castellaci confirmed that the AC Milan defender is out.

"Nesta will not be available to play in the final on Sunday," he said.