Italy have confirmed Alessandro Nesta will miss Monday's clash with Australia through injury.

The Milan defender has failed to shake off a groin injury he picked up in the win over Czech Republic on Thursday.

Nesta was forced to limp off with the problem and scans have confirmed the central defender will be not be fit in time to take on Australia.

Italy team doctor Enrico Castellacci confirmed the game will come too soon for Nesta.

"It is not a big strain but he certainly won't play against Australia on Monday," said Castellacci

"We will continue to evaluate him and try to get him back as fast as possible."

Marco Materazzi is expected to replace Nesta in defence after coming on for him against Czech Republic.

Meanwhile, Italian duo Alberto Gilardino and Simone Perrotta have rejected suggestions there is rift in the squad over Francesco Totti.

Reports have suggested that some players have questioned whether or not Totti should be in the team to face Australia as he struggles for form and fitness.

Gilardino has slammed the rumours and insists the whole squad is behind Totti.

"There is not even a discussion about that in the dressing room - we all believe in him and see that he is giving his best," said Gilardino.

"The issue is not weighing on us at all - we are a united team and that is our real strength."

Perrotta echoed Gilardino's sentiments, saying even an unfit Totti is still important to the side.

"Totti is fine and is full of desire to do well," said Perrotta. "Francesco is not at 100 percent but even at 70-80 percent he can make the difference in a game.

"He is not a luxury for the side - in the role that he occupies there isn't anyone else who can make an impact the way that he does."