Just like fellow Roma fan favourite Francesco Totti, steely midfield enforcer Daniele De Rossi has amassed plaudits from Roma fans far and wide for his loyalty to his beloved side.
Despite interest from various club giants throughout his career, the Italian international has been a mainstay in the Giallorossi lineup through thick and thin, it really is no wonder De Rossi is considered the truest of fan favourites.
As if this wasn’t apparent enough, here’s a an example of just why he’s held in such high esteem.
With the recent passing away of 92 year old former Italy kitman Pietro Lombardi, a man effectively nearly nicknamed ‘Spazzolino’ – toothbrush – because of his efficiency at cleaning boots, It’s said De Rossi hastily left Wednesday training to be in attendance for his friends funeral in Florence.
Being on hand to service the Italian squad during their famous 2006 World Cup win, Spazzolino was particularly popular with the squad. As a gesture to his dear departed friend, the midfielder brought with him his World Cup winning medal and placed it in his coffin.
Whilst De Rossi only featured in a handful of games at the tournament for the Azzuri (although he did convert a penalty in the final against France), it quite undeniably what a heart warming gesture this is.
A true gent.
(Via Gazzetta World)