Vienna  -  Fabio Cannavaro was upbeat on Wednesday that his injury will have no negative effects on Italy's aspirations to add the Euro 2008 trophy to the 2006 World Cup title.

"We have enough experienced defenders," the sidelined Italy captain told a news conference only a few hours after undergoing surgery on ruptured ankle ligaments at a private Vienna hospital.

The 34-year-old defender expressed his satisfaction with the "perfect" operation on his injured left ankle, even though it makes him miss the June 7-29 Euro 2008 tournament in Austria and Switzerland.

"I was very optimistic from the start, as very experienced doctors were taking care of me," a smiling and relaxed Cannavaro said.

Cannavaro was operated in a private Vienna hospital by several specialists, including Italian team doctor Andrea Ferretti, Christian Gaebler, the tournament's chief medical officer and Alfonso del Corral, Real Madrid's chief physician.

The Italian player sustained his injuries in the team's first public training session in Austria on Monday, tearing two ankle ligaments after a clash with teammate Giorgio Chiellini.

The injury was not Chiellini's fault, Cannavaro, whose family also travelled to Vienna to support him, said.

The damage was repaired during the half-hour surgery, Ferretti said. He added that Cannavaro will be out for two to three months.

"Rehab will start as soon as possible, still in Austria," Ferretti said.

The world champion's star defender was expected to return to Italy's base camp in Baden near Vienna later on Wednesday.

While playing in the tournament will not be possible, Cannavaro said he wanted to remain with his team in Austria to follow the European championships. (dpa)