Toni keen to head home

Toni: Time to move on

Bayern Munich striker Luca Toni has expressed his desire to secure a move back to Italy as soon as possible.

The World Cup-winning striker has spent the last two years in Germany, having moved to Allianz Arena in May 2007.

He enjoyed initial success at Bayern, becoming the focal point of their attack as they took the 2007/08 Bundesliga title.

However, things have started to go off the rails of late, with Toni growing increasingly distant from coach Louis van Gaal.

He has seen his first-team opportunities restricted as a result and has made no secret of his desire to move on.

Premier League outfit West Ham are reported to have expressed an interest in acquiring his services, but Toni admits he would favour to return to Serie A - preferably during the January transfer window.

Certain

"I miss my country: the fans, my friends, my mother," the 32-year-old frontman told Chi.

"I don't know yet which team I will play for, but I know for sure that I will be going back to Italy."

Toni admits that his troubles at Bayern may have put paid to his 2010 World Cup dreams, but he is hoping a switch to Italy can help him to force his way back in Marcello Lippi's plans.

"Here in Germany I have made mistakes, which I regret," he added.

"These errors will probably cost me the chance to participate in the World Cup in South Africa, but I hope Lippi still calls on me.

"I am not beaten. The desire for football is still strong within me. I'll stop playing once I feel no more emotion. This is not that time."