World Cup winner Daniele De Rossi buried his winners' medal with the body of former Italy kitman Pietro Lombardi, whose funeral was held on Wednesday after he had passed away at the age of 92.
De Rossi's gesture was intended to salute Lombardi, who had endeared himself to the Azzurri squad that lifted the 2006 World Cup in Germany.
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The latter, who was nicknamed 'Spazzolino' by players, was responsible for catering to the needs of Marcello Lippi's men during their victorious campaign.
De Rossi chose to recognise his contributions to Italy's cause during the period by parting with his prized possession, leaving Roma's training earlier on Wednesday with the medal tucked into his pocket.
From the club's training ground, the 32-year-old drove to the site of Lombardi's funeral, where he paid his final tributes before depositing the item into the coffin.