Martin O’Neill has nothing but admiration for Gianluigi Buffon after classy gesture

It is a good thing Italy will never let Gianluigi Buffon retire because football will be a darker, more mean-spirited place without him.

In the immediate aftermath of the Republic of Ireland's dramatic 1-0 win, the 2006 World Cup-winning goalkeeper made a beeline for Martin O'Neill and Roy Keane to congratulate the Irish management team on qualifying for the last 16 of Euro 2016. Sure Italy had topped the group regardless and, sure, it cost Buffon nothing to offer his congratulations, but how many substitutes from an opposing team would take the time to do it? https://twitter.com/SportsJOEdotie/status/745972331168792577 Not bloody many. In Versailles on Thursday a clearly elated O'Neill paid tribute to the legendary Juventus stopper. "Buffon was very complimentary, which was nice from him," said O'Neill. "It was very pleasant considering he's one of the great goalkeepers of all time." One of the great goalkeepers and one of football's great gentlemen. He will be back where he belongs on Monday, between the sticks as Italy take on Spain - their reward for topping Group E is a second round encounter with the defending European champions. With Buffon thought they will always have a chance. Whether triumph or disaster you can be sure he will treat the twin imposters just the same.