Luka Modric left misty-eyed following emotional plea from Italian journalist

Luke Modric was left visibly touched after an Italian journalist pleaded with him to ‘never retire’ from football.

The Real Madrid icon’s international future has been left hanging in the balance after Croatia were denied victory against Italy due to an equaliser in the eighth minute of injury time.

Modric had already had the chance to put Croatia ahead but missed from the penalty spot thanks to a save from Gianluigi Donnarumma.

However the veteran redeemed himself when and became the oldest goalscorer in European Championship history with his second-half effort to put Croatia ahead, only for Italy to grab a 1-1 draw in the final seconds.

That Italy goal meant that Croatia finished their Group B campaign in third position, leaving their hopes of reaching the last-16 in serious doubt.

As a result, Modric was distraught at full-time after his penalty miss proved costly.

While it’s possible that Croatia could qualify via the third-place table, there’s a serious chance that Modric could have made his final appearance for his country.

Modric has achieved legendary status in football having led Croatia to a runner-up and a third-place finish in the last two World Cups, respectively.

In addition he has won four LaLiga titles, six Champions Leagues and five FIFA Club World Cups, along with the Ballon d’Or in 2018.

The 38-year-old faced the media after that last-gasp disappointment against Italy and was faced with a truly heartfelt question.

The Italian journalist said: “Good evening Luka, from an Italian journalist I wanted to thank you for everything that you’ve shown, not only tonight, but throughout your career.

“Once again, you signed off as a top-class player. Scoring, despite having missed a penalty.

“I just wanted to say this to you, I’d like to ask you to never retire from your playing career because you’re one of the finest players that I’ve ever commentated on, thank you.”

Modric was left stunned by the tribute and gave the reporter a wink and a smile, before responding: “Thank you very much for this wonderful tribute, right from the bottom of my heart, I thank you.

“I’d also like to keep playing forever but there probably will come a time when I have to hang up my boots.

“I’ll keep playing on, I don’t know for how much longer but thank you very much for your words. Grazie.”

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