Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Ferrara: "In Europe you end up paying even for the slightest mistake"

At the end of the match against Bordeaux, Ciro Ferrara commented the match starting from the change in attitude of the team in the first and second half: «First of all we must say that we played a team which is well organized, fast on the counter-attack and which closes up well. In the first half we lost a ball too many in midfield and took a bit too many risks while in the second half we were more aggressive and attacked more»
At the end of the day the bianconeri only won one point: «When we had the game in hand we conceded a goal from a set-piece which was probably even off-side. In Europe, unfortunately even the slightest mistake makes you pay. It is a pity because we really wanted to do well but we have the possibility of making up».
Buffon was great and Ferrara confirms this: «It is not news that we have the best goalkeeper in the world and it is an advantage. He was decisive on 2 or 3 occasions».
With regards to Cannavaro, Felipe Melo and Tiago who left the field injured Ferrara hopes that «they will be available as soon as possible», while the medical staff will speak in the next few hours.

Buffon: "There are no easy teams in the Champions League" & Iaquinta

Once again Gigi Buffon was in a super mood making a couple of very important saves: «I made 2 or 3 good saves but I think that there is nothing to be over-enthusiastic about because this should be the normal thing. I am a bit disappointed with the result because we deserved to do better but at the end of the day they also deserved a draw. There are no easy teams in the Champions League and then when the opponents are Bordeaux who are coming from 17 positive results and are the French champions it is obvious that they are a good team. They are a very valid team, have some good players and they are strong».

Iaquinta: «We wanted to start off with a victory» 

he comments of the bianconeri after the home draw against Bordeaux are clearly full with disappointment for the failed victory and this is even reflected in the words of Vincenzo Iaquinta who once again scored a great goal putting Juventus ahead: «Yes we are disappointed because we conceded a goal from a set-piece and off-side but we played well and the field did not help. It was difficult to hold the ball. We wanted to start off with a victory but they are strong especially in defence. Now we must think of playing in Munich against Bayern. I am in a good physical condition, free of injury and I am managing to play with consistency. Amauri and I work well together and we both try to use our strength».

 

 

Juventus - Bordeaux 1 - 1

Juventus and Bordeaux are both determined to start-off on the right footing on the debut match of this season’s Champions League. The initial minutes see the French team showing a certain aggressiveness both when it comes to fouls and actions.
On the 3rd minute Buffon saves on a dangerous Bordeaux initiative. The referee stops play for a foul in attack. One minute later Bordeaux are still on the attack but the shot is easily saved by Buffon.
The 6th minute sees a hard challenge on Iaquinta just outside the area but the referee signals to play on. Two minutes later there is a free-kick for Bordeaux but the ball sails straight into the hands of Buffon. On the 9th minute a Marchisio shots sails high over the bar. Seconds later, Bordeaux seem to be pressing on the accelerator in these initial stages of the match.
It is the 10th minute when Felipe Melo frees the Juve area from a dangerous ball. Juve are trying to create some action on the right flank first with Giovinco and then with Caceres. On the 13th minute Felipe Melo is fouled in midfield after winning a good ball. One minute later there is a good cross into the Bordeaux area deviated into corner by the defence. From the flag the ball reaches Tiago who shoots high.
On the 16th minute a Bordeaux shot from outside the area goes wide. Two minutes later Giovinco is fouled in midfield after winning a great ball. On the 20th minute Tremoulinas tries across into the Juve area but Buffon cradles the ball and seconds later a Iaquinta shot goes high.
The 22nd minute sees a good exchange with the ball reaching Iaquinta with the keeper forced to save. Three minutes later there is a free-kick for Juventus: Iaquinta takes it but the ball hits Amauri and is easily held by the keeper. Five minutes later it is Buffon who punches away following a French free-kick. On the 31st minute a good Giovinco shot is held by the keeper.
On the 33rd minute there is a corner for Bordeaux: ball reaches Diarra who shoots wide. Two minutes later, a good Caceres cross into the area sees Amauri heading but the keeper saves. There is another corner on the 37th minute: Giovinco puts the ball into the area. The ball seems about to cross the line but is cleared by Fernando.
The 44th minute sees a corner for the French side: ball headed wide by Gorcuff. The first half ends after one minute of stoppage time on 0-0.
The second half turns out to be a very exciting part of the match with Juve dominating for most of the 49 minutes. On the 2nd minute, Legrottaglie clears a dangerous ball in the area. One minute later there is a Bordeaux free-kick: Buffon first and Caceres after clear a dangerous ball.
On the 3rd minute, A Juve counter-attack sees Iaquinta losing the ball before entering the area. One minute later Buffon saves incredibly on a Gourcuff shot and a few seconds after, Bordeaux corner sees Iaquinta heading again for a flag kick. The 6th minute sees Iaquinta going past the keeper after receiving from Tiago and shoots wide from a difficult angle. A good opportunity for Juve.
The 7th minute there is a corner for Juve after a good Grosso run: Giovinco puts the ball into the area with Grosso heading wide. Two minutes later, Grosso clears on a dangerous Plasil initiative.  On the 11th minute Bordeaux are forced to change the keeper: Rame on for Carrasso.
On the 12th minute, there is a corner for Juve: Giovinco puts a low ball into the area which is cleared by the defence. Juve are showing much more initiative in this part of the match, acting very much on the flanks. One minute later, a Giovinco shot is too weak to worry the keeper. On the 14th minute there is a free-kick for Juve after a foul on Tiago: Grosso dishes out a great shot forcing the keeper to a great save. From the corner Amauri does not manage to head a good Giovinco cross.
It is the 17th minute when a powerful Marchisio shot is deviated by Iaquinta who is off-side. Two minutes later, Iaquinta receives from Cannavaro, runs entering the area and shoots straight into the net: 1-0. On the 21st minute Zebina comes on for Cannavaro. Caceres moves to the centre of the defence.
On the 22nd minute, Buffon performs a miracle on a dangerous shot. Two minutes later, Melo forces the keeper to save into corner after a fiery shot. Seconds later, Marchisio passes to Zebina whose shot is deviated into corner: Rame removes it from Amauri's head. On the 25th minute there is a corner for Juve: ball into the area but the defence clears. Seconds later, Zebina makes a good save on a dangerous counter-attack.
On the 26th minute, an Amauri shot is deviated by the defence. One minute later, there is a corner for Juve: Giovinco puts the ball into the area, Amauri heads perfectly but the keeper performs a volleyball save for a corner. The 28th minutes sees Giovinco coming off to be replaced by Camoranesi.
Juventus are struck on their best moment: on the 29th minute, Bordeaux benefit of a free-kick: ball reaches Plasil who deposits into the net from a dubious position. 1-1. Four minutes later, Caceres loses a dangerous ball forcing Buffon to save . On the 35th minute an excellent Tiago is forced to leave the field due to injury. Poulsen comes on.
On the 36th minute there is a free-kick for Juve following a foul on Amauri: ball hits the wall. Another free-kick for Juventus on the 39th minute: ball into the area cleared by the defence. One minute later, Buffon is forced to leave the area to save on Gouffran and seconds later Gourcuff from a dangerous position inside the area puts the ball high.
The 41st minute sees a good shot by Poulsen goes inches high following a cross by Zebina. Two minutes later, a Marchisio shot after a Caceres cross hits the under side of the bar. From the rebound, Poulsen shoots high.
The 43rd minute sees a free-kick for Bordeaux: Poulsen who has had a good impact on the match clears well. Two minutes later, there is a free-kick for Juve after a foul outside the area on Zebina: the Grosso shot is headed away.
The match ends in a 1-1 draw but Juventus definitely deserved more. However, considering the fact that Bordeaux are the French champions and that Juve were missing a number of important players the result can be considered satisfactory.

Champions League, Group A – 1st match day 
Turin, Stadio Olimpico
Tuesday 15th September 2009
JUVENTUS – BORDEAUX: 1-1
Goals: Iaquinta (63rd ), Plasil (76th),
JUVENTUS: Buffon; Caceres, Cannavaro (Zebina 65th), Legrottaglie, Grosso; Felipe Melo, Tiago (Poulsen 80th), Marchisio; Giovinco (Camoranesi 73rd); Iaquinta, Amauri. Reserves: Manninger, De Ceglie, Zebina, Molinaro, Poulsen, Camoranesi, Trezeguet. Coach: Ferrara.
BORDEAUX: Carrasso (Rame 56th), Chalme’, Planus, Ciani, Tremoulinas, Plasil (Gouffran 77th), Diarra, Fernando, Gourcuff, Wendel; Chamakh. Reserves: Rame, Henrique, Placente, Jussie, Gouffran, Cavenaghi, Bellion. Coach: Blanc.
Referee: Tom Henning Ovrebo
 
Yellow Cards: Ciani (65th), Giovinco (67th)

Monday, September 14, 2009

Buffon: "We have undertaken the right road"

After three victories in the championship, two of which in Rome, for Juventus it is time to make their debut even in the Champions League. On Tuesday the bianconeri will play their first match of the 2009/10 edition at the Olimpico against Bordeaux.

It is a new opportunity for the bianconeri to try and confirm themselves even in Europe:. This is the  objective of Buffon  – who was busy addressing the press conference together with Ferrara – and his team mates: «During Saturday’s match against Lazio, we never stopped fighting and believing in the victory even when we encountered difficulties. After just three matches in the championship it is still early to say for sure but we have undertaken the right road».

The bianconeri are therefore about to get back to Euroepan football and just like a year ago, the group stage is not a simple one. Buffon, therefore, wants a Juve that is ready to face the match against Bordeaux with the same ardor fielded against Real Madrid and Zenit: «last season we played against highly acclaimed opponents and yet we won the group and gave signs of being an important team. In the successive round we faced an improving Chelsea and we could have even gone through. Now it is still early to say if we can aim at winning the competition but we surely have a more competitive squad».

The squad was in fact strengthened by the signings of the likes of Cannavaro, Grosso, Felipe Melo, Caceres and especially Diego. The former Werder player will miss the  European debut and even though the news with regards to his injury are positive (7 days of recovery) and put everybody’s mind at rest, Buffon thinks that Juventus is ready for the appointment even without its Brazilian champion: «Diego is an important player for us and we would like him to play in every match but a great team cannot depend on one player. In order to be competitive it must have an ample squad with many players of a high level».
juventus.com

Diego Wants To Make History With Juventus

Juventus playmaker Diego has been ruled out of the Champions League match with Bordeaux, but he is looking forward to playing in the competition as soon as possible."We face some good teams and for me there will be a special challenge - when we face Bayern in Germany, as they are my old rivals," he explained to UEFA's official website."I know that game, as well as many others, will be difficult. However, I think we will go far and do well in the competition."

Recently the Brazilian's style of play has gathered comparisons with stars of the past such as Zico, Gianfranco Zola and Roberto Baggio."I've always admired those players and I am glad to hear my name mentioned next to theirs," he continued."I want to write my own history at Juventus. I feel very happy and motivated here. The supporters send shivers down my back and I think I've begun to get to know my team-mates. I feel at home."

The Brazilian's absence is likely to make room for Italian youngster Sebastian Giovinco against the French side.

You Need A Winning Mentality To Play For Juventus - David Trezeguet

Tomorrow Juventus will host French champions Bordeaux in their opening Group A match in the Champions League. The team are coming off three straight victories in the league, so their morale is high, which seems to have been the case ever since coach Ciro Ferrara stepped in to replace Claudio Ranieri.
Striker David Trezeguet, who scored in last weekend's win against Lazio, talked about the club's winning mentality.
"Juventus have to go and win everywhere," he said to SkySport24. "I can say that because I've been at Juve for ten years. If you draw, no one is happy here. When a coach arrives at Juve, he has to win every Sunday, no draw matters, all that matters are the three points.
"The defeat against Chelsea last season was a very heavy one for us. But I think that, as in every league, there are different categories of teams. Juve are part of those that have to win every Sunday, as well as in the Champions League and the Coppa Italia. This is the winning mentality, the mentality they have taught me in these ten years."
Asked if the much-criticised Ranieri had that winning mentality, Trezeguet said, "I won't say whether the coach had a winning mentality or not. The coach did his work. I think the club was very clear with him, he did extraordinary work, but Juve are about winning, if you don't win that's what happens."
 Goal.com

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Juventus Captain Del Piero Aiming For Return In Champions League Debut

Juventus captain Alessandro Del Piero has been forced to watch on from the sidelines as his side made a convincing start to the season, with three wins in three matches against Chievo, Roma and Lazio.
The club icon will now hope to be back for Tuesday's Champions League match against Bordeaux, although according to TuttoSport, the chances of him making the team are slim.
Yesterday morning he did some extra work on the training ground, arriving early to do some running and athletic exercises, as well as some work with the ball.
Del Piero's injury occurred on 11 August, when in the traditional friendly against the Primavera team, he suffered a knock to his back, the pain later extending to his left thigh.
However, aside from the injury problem, the competition is now tougher than ever, with Diego also a possible competitor for Pinturicchio, even though the Brazilian also suffered an injury in yesterday's match with Lazio which may keep him out for around three weeks.
As for the other injured players, coach Ciro Ferrara is hoping to get back Zdenek Grygera, who recently suffered a contusion to his knee, while there are still doubts concerning Jonathan Zebina, even though he has clinically recovered from his Achilles heel inflammation.
Hasan Salihamidzic is unlikely to make it because of a problem to his fibula following the Serie A debut against Chievo.
Goal.com

Lazio-Juventus 0-2 HL

"I Hope Injury Is Not Serious" – Diego

Juventus midfielder Diego had to be substituted in the first half of last night's clash against Lazio at the Olimpico in Rome, in the third matchday of Serie A, due to a muscular injury.

The former Werder Bremen player will have some tests today as he hopes that the injury will not be as bad as the one he suffered in Germany in the past months.

"I feel a bit of pain, on Sunday I will undertake some tests," declared the Brazilian player to Sky at the end of the clash against the Biancocelesti.

"My muscular problem in Germany of last Spring was very serious, I hope that this is less."

According to the latest indications, Diego is at risk of remaining out for at least 20 days, even though it will all be clearer once the test results are out.

What seems certain is that the player will miss his debut Champions League game for the Bianconeri as they host Bordeaux on Tuesday evening.

Trezeguet: "I am working hard to get back to my levels"


The victory against Lazio can be defined as one of first timer: the first goal of Martin Caceres on the day of his official debut but also the first goal of the “new” career of David Trezeguet. After quite a bit of suffering, at the Olimpico the Franco-Argentine returned to scoring. In fact he did so with one of his typical goals typical of the area striker he is, at the end of  a match during which he tried quite a few times his luck at goal.
Trezeguet has returned even when it comes to motivation, so much so that he made a statement which will surely be appreciated by Ferrara and all the Juventus supporters. «I have not yet reached a definite decision whether to leave Juventus at the end of the season. I must still speak to my family. Even tonight I realized how much everybody loves me and how happy they were with my goal. The goal scored tonight has a great taste. Today for me is a return to great levels. After the injury I worked hard and suffered in order to return and my team mates really helped me a lot. I am drawing close to Sivori? For me it is an honour seeing that Omar was one of my idols. For now, however, I am interested in re-finding my best condition and continuing to be useful to this team. On Tuesday the Champions League takes off. We showed we are there in the championship and now it is the turn of others to show they are. We are hopeful for this season. The club really did a great deal to make this team more competitive. It is now up to us players to do our part».

Lazio-Juventus 0-2

On their first official match of the season (the first ever for Caceres) Trezeguet and the Uruguay national scored the two goals which gave Juventus an important 2-0 victory over Lazio. It’s 5 out of 5 for Ferrara and the 4th clean sheet.
It is a day of debuts for Juventus: Grosso and Caceres are on their first official match as bianconeri while Trezeguet makes his season debut in the first official match. Ferrara fields a different 11 compared to the ones against Roma but the scheme is always a 4-3-2-1 with Diego behind Trezeguet and Amauri.
On the second minute Buffon takes no chances and puts the ball out for a throw. Lazio take the initiative in these first few minutes but Juve hold well. On the 6th minute Amauri crosses into the Lazio area in search of Trezeguet but the ball is a bit too long. One minute later there is a good bit of action by the bianconeri with Lazio forced to resort to kicking the ball out.
On the 10th minute Chiellini tries to launch Trezeguet but the ball is too long. Seconds later, Trezeguet with an incredible first timer forces Muslera to a save and a corner for Juve. Juve are starting to take control. On the 13th minute a Marchisio shot is blcoked by the defence and seconds later Camoranesi with an incredible lob forces Muslera to a difficult save on a ball destined to the net.
The 14th minute sees Trezeguet being anticpated just in time by the Lazio keeper as he is about to shoot from close range. On the 17th minute a Free-kick for Lazio goes wide and one minute later Matuzalem shoots very high over the bar. The 19th minute sees a free-kick for Lazio from a distance but Amauri heads away and two minutes later there is a great save by Buffon on a powerful Kolarov shot.
On the 22nd minute Amauri enters the area and crosses to Trezeguet who is anticipated by Siviglia into corner. From the corner taken by Diego the ball is cleared by the defence. Two minutes later there is a free-kick for Juve as Camoranesi is fouled: Diego takes it and Muslera punches away. On the 26th minute a Camoranesi cross goes wide.
The 28th minute sees Amauri being stopped for a dubious off-side as he is about to enter the area. One minute later it is once again Buffon who punches away on a powerful Kolarov shot. On the half hour mark Buffon and the post save on a Lazio free-kick. Four minutes later, Grosso tries to put in a cross for Treseguet but the Lazio defence clears.
On the 35th minute Foggia shoots high over the bar and seconds later Marchisio passes to Trezeguet who enters the area but is stopped by Siviglia before he has time to shoot. Three minutes later Felipe Melo wins a good ball and passes to Camoranesi who crosses into the area with the Lazio defence managing to clear.
The 41st minute sees Amauri grounded in the area but the referee says it was the Brazilian that committed the foul. One  minute later Amauri is once again stopped for a foul in attack upon entering the Lazio area. On the 43rd minute Cruz tries a shot at goal but Buffon saves easily.
Giovinco comes on for Diego on the 44th minute as the Brazilian has a muscular problem to his thigh. On the 46th minute there is a free-kick for Lazio from a dangerous position following a Grosso foul. The ball enters the net after a series of kicks but the referee disallows for a foul on Legrottaglie by Cruz. The first half ends after 2 minutes of stoppage time: 0-0.
The second half starts off with the teams fielding the same 11 players as at the end of the first. On the second minute, a Grosso cross is intercepted by Dabo. Three minutes later, Mauri tries a shot from outside the area but Buffon cradles the ball without particular difficulty. On the 6th minute Marchisio shoots high over the bar.
On the 7th minute Baronio shoots from outside the area with the ball going slightly wide. One minute later there is a foul on Giovinco and a free-kick for Juventus. The ball reaches Grosso who puts a dangerous ball into the area and Amauri just misses the final touch owing to the ball being a bit too fast.  On the 11th minute Chiellini puts the ball into corner in order to prevent Cruz from receiving the ball.
One minute later there is a free-kick for Lazio following a Camoranesi foul on Foggia but Legrottaglie heads away. Lazio are once again taking the initiative in these initial stages of the second half. The 16th minute sees Grosso who puts a ball into the area, Giovinco extends towards Trezeguet but the defence clears. One minute later Camoranesi tries a curling shot from outside the area but the ball goes slightly wide.
The 19th minute sees a good Giovinco pass in the area after a beautiful exchange with Marchisio, Trezeguet turning and shooting but the shot is not strong enough and the keeper holds onto the ball. Two minutes later Chiellini intervenes on a dangerous ball in the area putting it away for a corner. On the 23rd minute Buffon blocks a dangerous ball which remains in the area for a few seconds before being cleared by the defence. On the counter-attack, Amauri shoots softly after receiving from Giovinco.
One minute later Tiago comes on for Camoranesi. On the 27th minute a cross in the area sees Trezeguet and Amauri failing to head, but the ball reaches Caceres who with a powerful shot puts the ball in the net: 1-0 for Juventus by Caceres on his debut!
The half hour sees a beautiful move first by Giovinco and then by Marchisio but the defence clears.
Trezeguet receives the ball and enters the area but is stopped just before attempting a shot at goal on the 31st minute. Two minutes later Muslera is forced to punch away a Giovicno shot from outside the area.  On the 35th minute Giovinco shoots after a run but the shot is not powerful enough and Muslera manages to cradle the ball. Juventus have gained confidence after the goal and are having the upper hand.
On the 41st minute Marchisio tries a shot from outside the area but the ball hits a defender. One minute later, Molinaro comes on for Grosso. The 43rd minute sees Cruz trying a shot from 25 metres but Buffon is well placed and cradles the ball.
The 4th minute of stoppage time sees the return of Trezegol: Amauri exchanges a ball with Giovinco who gives the ball once again to Amauri who shoots with Muslera saving. From the re-bound the ball reaches Trezeguet who shoots into the net for the 2-0! Trezeguet scores on his first official match of the season.
The match ends with Juventus obtaining another victory in Rome and this time it is thanks to two “debutants”: Caceres and Trezeguet.

Serie A 2009/10 3rd  Match Day
Rome, Stadio Olimpico
Saturday 12th September, 2009
LAZIO – JUVENTUS:  0-2
Scorers:  Caceres 73rd, Trezeguet 94th
LAZIO: Muslera; Lichtsteiner, Siviglia, Diakitè, Kolarov; Dabo (Inzaghi 77th), Baronio, Mauri; Matuzalem; Foggia (Eliseu 79th), Cruz. Reserves:  Bizzarri, Faraoni, Radu, Eliseu, Meghni, Del Nero, Inzaghi. Coach.: Ballardini
JUVENTUS: Buffon; Caceres, Legrottaglie, Chiellini, Grosso (Molinaro 86th); Camoranesi (Tiago 68th), Felipe Melo, Marchisio; Diego (Giovinco 44th); Amauri, Trezeguet. Reserves: Manninger, Cannavaro, De Ceglie, Poulsen, Tiago, Giovinco, Iaquinta. Coach.: Ferrara
Referee: Gervasoni from Mantova
Yellow Cards: Legrottaglie (30th), Felipe Melo (54th), Caceres (59th)

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Lazio - Juventus 20.45 h ECT Seria "A" 3rd round livestreaming HQ





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Juventus Striker David Trezeguet To Start Against Lazio

David Trezeguet will no longer be wearing the famous Bianconeri colours after announcing his decision to leave the club

Juventus striker David Trezeguet is set to start his first game of the season against Lazio.

The Frenchman has not played for Juve this term, but he is likely to start in tonight's clash, according to Tuttosport. The last time 'Trezegol' started for his club was against Lazio in the Coppa Italia semi-final back in April, a game Juve lost 2-1.

Alessandro Del Piero has been left behind in Turin to continue recovering from a problem with his left leg.

Vincenzo Iaquinta has made the trip to Rome, but voices claim he will be left on the bench after playing for Italy in mid-week. It leaves Ciro Ferrara with Amauri and Trezeguet as his front two men, with Diego playing just behind.

Juve will be hoping to keep their perfect start in tact. The last time they lost at the Olimpico in Serie A against the Aquilotti was in 2003.

Goal.com

Friday, September 11, 2009

Juventus Coach Ferrara: Caution Against Lazio; Inter Feeling The Heat

The coach has warned against the potential pitfalls his players face against Lazio...

Sep 11, 2009 

Juventus coach Ciro Ferrara has warned his side of the dangers they face when they clash with Lazio in Rome tomorrow night.

The Bianconeri head to the Olimpico hoping to keep their 100 percent record intact. Ferrara has told his players they will need to stand firm and fight hard for maximum points.
"It will be a very delicate game," Ferrara told the press.
"When I saw the fixture list I said that it would be hard for us and the opposition. Roma didn't want to face us straight away, and now we head back to the Olimpico to face a Lazio side in great form."
Seven Juventus players took part in Italy's whirlwind week of World Cup qualifiers, but despite the hard work, Ferrara is expecting the right response from his men. The coach has also confirmed Alessandro Del Piero will make the trip, despite some concerns over his fitness.
"The national team players all got back ok. Felipe Melo will meet us in Rome, while I have picked Del Piero for tomorrow, even though he is continuing his recovery," added the coach.
Massimo Moratti, the Inter president, claimed he would be supporting Lazio as he stirred up another conflict. Ferrara has responded, claiming the Nerazzurri can feel the heat.
"Moratti? I would have been stunned if he said the contrary. This confirms Juventus are putting pressure on the opposition," concluded Ferrara.

Goal.com

Grosso has no debut nerves

Fabio Grosso is looking forward to his Juventus debut against Lazio, but Alessandro Del Piero could miss out again.

Although he is yet to make an appearance in the Bianconeri jersey, the left-back has already enchanted Turin by scoring in Italy’s 2-0 victory over Bulgaria at the Stadio Olimpico.
“I am ready to play on Saturday in Rome and to give my best,” assured the 2006 World Cup winner.
“Being at Juve is a source of immense pride and I hope to win, because that is what the club deserves.
“I expect to do well and we have everything we need to aim high. With humility, we will try to achieve those targets.”
Del Piero is yet to make an appearance for Juventus in Serie A this season, as he has been struggling with a back problem.
Now the captain has recovered from that ailment and has another, as he skipped training on Thursday due to an Achilles heel twinge.
There are doubts on whether Del Piero can play against Lazio, so David Trezeguet could well partner Amauri.
Vincenzo Iaquinta should be rested after featuring at club and international level regularly.
The striker also scored in the 2-0 win over Bulgaria, a game that saw seven Juve players in the starting XI.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Juventus Plan Move For Arsenal's Emmanuel Eboue - Report

Juventus are looking at Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboue as the answer to their right-back questions, according to Tuttosport.

The reports indicates a move is being planned by club directors for the winter transfer market, as Ciro Ferrara has asked for a reliable defender for his right side. Jonathan Zebina has struggled with injury problems, while Zdenek Grygera has found it hard to perform in the coach's new tactical set up.

Ferrara is keen to challenge for the Champions League and the Scudetto and he wants a powerful, pacy and combative right-back who can cope with the demands of top European action. In addition, Eboue can play as a midfielder, allowing Ferrara freedom to work with his players and tactics.

The Ivory Coast international has already been linked with Fiorentina. The Viola had opened up discourse with the Gunners in the summer, but the move didn't happen.
Milan have also had a look at the player, but it is thought that Juventus are in pole position.

Despite the report, though, neither Arsenal nor Juventus have confirmed the claims.

 Goal.com

Gianluigi Buffon: Italy Are Almost There

A much-improved Italy defeated Bulgaria 2-0 in Turin and virtually booked their place in next summer’s World Cup in South Africa.

Marcello Lippi’s men will only need a point to make sure of top spot in Group Eight when they travel to Dublin to face the Republic of Ireland next month.

“Qualification is not mathematical yet, but we have taken an enormous step forward,” Gianluigi Buffon told Rai TV after the encounter.

Italy came under heavy criticism last weekend after a fortunate 2-0 win away to rock-bottom Georgia, a performance that was described in the national press as ‘embarrassing’.

“We wanted to prove we could do better than what we did in the match with Georgia and did well particularly in the first half,” said Buffon who turned in another outstanding display in the win.

Some sections of the press have started referring to the Nazionale as ‘Italjuve’ after Lippi named seven Bianconeri players in his starting XI last evening, but Buffon does not agree.

“No, Italy belongs to everyone,” he concluded.
 
 Goal.com

The squad is nearly complete

Ciro Ferrara will have a practically full squad for the training session scheduled this afternoon at 18:00hrs, two days before the away match against Lazio in Rome on Saturday night at 20:45hrs. Nearly all the internationals will be back, excluding Felipe Melo and Caceres who are on their way back from South America.

Tomorrow morning will see the last training session before the departure for Rome.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Juventus Boss Ciro Ferrara: Alessandro Del Piero? No One Is Untouchable

Juventus striker Alessandro Del Piero has yet to make a Serie A appearance this season, being left out of the team to recover from an injury.

Reports had indicated Del Piero would be available to play against Roma this past weekend, a match Juventus won 3-1, but coach Ciro Ferrara opted to give the talisman some extra time to recover.

"There are no pacts, only a common goal, that Juventus be competitive on all fronts," the coach told Radio Kiss Kiss on Wednesday.

"Alex is the captain, the symbol of the club and may not be too happy with my technical choices, but I have four strikers of the highest level and I cannot guarantee a place for everyone."

The forward extended his contract with the Bianconeri this summer until 2011 and scored 20 goals in all competitions last season.

Goal.com

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Roma - Juve 1 - 3 HL

Fabio Grosso is a Juventus player

Juventus reached an agreement with Olympique Lyonnais for the definite transfer of Fabio Grosso for a total of €2 million payable in three annual instalments. The value of the agreement can be increased up to a further €1 million upon reaching certain sport objectives during the length of the contract.

The agreement is under the condition that the international transfer in favour of Juventus reaches the club by Tuesday 1st September 2009. Juventus signed a three year contract with the player.

«The signing of Fabio Brosso – declared general manager Blanc – adds quality to an already very competitive squad. The international experience and the qualities of a world champion will certainly be useful to a team competing on three fronts. Ferrara, will therefore have at his disposal other technical solutions and will have a player who he got to know during his experience with the national team. With this signing Juventus have ended a very busy transfer market, which hand has now all the best conditions to concentrate on its sports objectives».

Fabio Grosso is to all a symbol of the world cup in Germany. He was the one to score the goal against Germany which opened the way to the final for Italy and his was the decisive penalty which drove an entire country into ecstasy on that night in Berlin. Fabio Grosso’s career in the summer of 2006 reached its climax but did not burn out with the victory in Germany. To get to the top of the world, Grosso started from the very bottom from his debut in Serie C2 with Chieti in 1988, to Palermo in 2004 and the call-up to the national team.

After the world cup which he lived as a hero, he moved to Inter for one season before joining Lyon with whom in two years he made 52 appearances and scored 2 goals. Now, on the last day of the transfer market, he joins Juventus and return to the Italian championship where he wants to be a protagonist.

juventus.com

Diego: «The capability of sacrificing ourselves is our strength»

I am happy with the two goals and the victory. We played a great match». Diego Ribas da Cunha is gleaming: two fantastic goals, a constant presence in the game and a fundamental victory. After the assist for Iaquinta in the match against Chievo, at the Rome Olimpico the Brazilian was the absolute protagonist of the match. His approach with the Italian championship could not be better: «It is thanks to the Juventus environment, to Ferrara, to my team mates, to the affection of the fans. It is thanks to all this that I managed to fit in well. The strength of Juve is this: the capability of players of great class to adapt to a scheme and to sacrifice themselves if necessary».

Ferrara: «We played with great personality»

He took over in the last two matches of last season and won all four matches. He changed the formation and the players fit perfectly. Ciro Ferrara brought a new mentality to Juventus and the results followed just like today’s against Roma.

«It was a nice victory especially for the three points and the show of strength which is always important here in Rome. We wanted to understand what our potential was and I think we did so here. Tonight I must be happy and satisfied even though there are certain things which we must work on. We played with great personality and this is something really important. Those who played did really well».

The coach chose to field Marchisio instead of Camoranesi from the start: «Our intention was to win the match and since I knew that Camoranesi had certain problems with his knee and gave him half an hour of play».

The condition surely improved and yet a bit of anger about the goal was inevitable: «We must be angry when things don’t work out and in moments of difficulty. I got angry today when it came to the goal because we knew how they would have taken the free-kick immediately. The boys were angry too. In comparison to last week I think our condition improved quite a bit and we must improve it further. I am a bit worried about the break because I will only be able to work with a few players and will have only two days to work on the match against Lazio».

Finally the coach sent his best wishes to Pavel Nedved on his birthday: «Hey happy birthday Pavel! You’re getting old too!»

The Brazilian connection! Juve tame the wolf! Roma- Juventus 1-3

It is immediately a great match with a bit of tacticism in the beginning but great rivalry and determination and will to win throughout. Ferrara chose to field a 4-3-2-1 formation with Diego to act as ball feeder to strikers Iaquinta and Amauri.

On the 1st minute Felipe Melo with the help of Buffon clears a rather tricky ball in the area. Two minutes later, A Diego shot from outside the area is deviated into corner. The 4th minute sees a A Marchisio cross go straight into the arms of the keeper. On the 5th minute there is a corner for Roma but the ball goes very wide. Three minutes later Roma benefit of another corner after a run and shot by Mexes with deviation. The Juve defence brings the ball out. One minute later, there is a ball into the Juve area but Chiellini heads away.

On the 10th minute there is a good cross by Iaquinta into the area but Amauri does not manage to head the ball. One minute later Cassetti shoots from way out but the weak shot does not create any problems for Buffon. On the 20th minute, Diego puts a ball into the Roma area but De Rossi heads away.

It is the 21st minute when Iaquinta recieves a ball in the area but the ball is shot into corner by the defence. From the flag the ball is put into the area but the defence clears. One minute later there is a free-kick for Juve: Diego puts the ball into the area, Tiago heads greatly but the keeper performs a miracle putting the ball into corner.

The Brazilian champion scores his first goal in the Serie A three minutes later. Diego wins a ball in midfield, goes past two defenders, enters the area and puts the ball behind the keeper for the opener (1-0). Three minutes later, there is a corner for Juve: ball reaches Iaquinta but is put one again into corner. Tiago back on the field shoots but the defence clears.

The 32nd minute sees a free-kick for Roma: Pizzarro puts the ball very wide for a goal-kick. Three minutes later De Rossi takes Juventus by surprise and shoots from a distance equalizing before the bianconeri have time to settle down for the free-kick (1-1).

Juve react and on the 37th minute benefit of a free-kick. Diego puts the ball into the area but Riise clears. One minute later another Diego free-kick followed by an Amauri header is saved by the keeper. On the 40th minute there is a free-kick for Roma: ball into the area but Melo puts into corner. Three minutes later it is Juve who go close to scoring again: Amauri hits the post after a good exchange in attack.

The 45th minute sees Diego with a great cross into the area for Amauri but the keeper manages to punch away. In the only minute of stoppage time two Juve defenders slip and Totti is alone in front of Buffon who performs a miracle just before the half-time whistle.

The second half continues where the first left off. On the 3rd minute there is a free-kick for Roma: ball into the area cleared well by Iaquinta. One minute later, Melo tries a shot from 25 metres but the ball is cleared. On the 5th minute, the ballis put into the area towards Amauri but Julio Sergio saves. Seconds later, Diego enters the area and passes to Iaquinta but Mexes manages to anticipate.

On the 9th minute Amauri receives the ball in the area and shoots but Julio Cesar denies him the goal. From the corner, the ball reaches Amauri who heads high. On the 12th minute Iaquinta with a great run enters the area, is disturbed by Burdisso who puts the shot into corner in what was a golden opportunity. One minute later there is a free-kick for Juve: Diego puts the ball into the area, the defence clears partially but the referee stops the action because Cassetti is on the floor. Two minutes later, A Iaquinta header goes inches high.

Camoranesi comes on for an injured Marchisio on the 17th minute. Four minutes later, a great header in the area by Amauri is saved by the Roma keeper. On the 23rd minute Diego shows all his phenomenal talent. The Brazilian receives from Iaquinta, goes round Mexes and shoots beyond the keeper for the 2-1! Simply magical!

On the 25th minute Diego dribbles past the defence who finally intercept the pass. Two minutes later Menez makes Juve hearts miss a beat finally putting a dangerous ball wide. On the 29th minute Legrottaglie on for De Ceglie. Cheillini moves to a full-back position. One minute later there is a corner for Juve: Tiago receives the ball and sees his shot headed into corner.

The 32nd minute sees Tiago who receives from Iaquinta but his shot is not powerful enough. One minute later, Totti hits the post after a Cannavaro deviation. From the flag a De Rossi attempt is waved away by Buffon and then another attempt goes very high. A Roma free-kick goes straight into the arms o Buffon.

On the 36th minute, A Chiellini conclusion goes wide after some really good action by Diego, Amauri, Iaquinta and the defender. Two minutes later, a powerful Diego shot from outside the area is saved by the keeper.

The 39th minute sees Poulsen come on for Diego. The Brazilian ace is applauded as he exits the stadium. Two minutes later, Amauri stopped for a foul in attack after some really good work. Menez tries a shot but the ball goes wide on the 42nd minute. The 44th minute sees a free-kick for Roma after a dubious foul of Amauri on Pizarro: Pizarro takes it but Chiellini clears.

On the 46th minute a A Poulsen shot goes high but two minutes later Felipe Melo wins a ball in midfield, advances, shoots and scores a great goal dfixing the final result on 3-1!
Juventus played a great game against a difficult team in a tricky stadium, once again responding to Ferrara’s instructions and bringing home a very important 3 points.

Serie A 2009/10 2nd Match Day
Rome, Stadio Olimpico
Sunday 30th August, 2009

ROMA – JUVENTUS: 1-3

Scorers: Diego (25th), De Rossi (36th), Diego (68th), Felipe Melo (93rd)

ROMA: J. Sergio; Cassetti, Burdisso, Mexes, Riise (Vucinic 71st); De Rossi, Pizzarro; Taddei (Tonetto 46th), Perrotta (Cerci 80th); Menez, Totti. Reserves: Artur, Juan, Motta, Gubetti, Tonetto, Cerci, Vucinic. Coach: Spalletti.

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Grygera, Cannavaro, Chiellini, De Ceglie (Legrottaglie 74th);Tiago, Felipe Melo, Marchisio (Camoranesi 62nd); Diego (Poulsen 84th), Iaquinta, Amauri. Reserves: Manninger, Legrottaglie, Molinaro, Camoranesi, Poulsen, Del Piero, Trezeguet. Coach: Ferrara.

REFEREE: Rocchi

Yellow Cards: Tiago (15th), De Rossi (19th), Taddei (34th), Diego (36th), Perrotta (36th), Marchisio (44th), Grygera (80th),

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Felipe Melo and Diego available. 21 depart for Roma match


As foreseen Felipe Melo and Diego have recovered from their respective muscular problems and are available for the away match in Rome which will also see the particpation of Sebastian Giovinco who is now back with the group. Hasan Salihamidzic will not make it after failing to recover from the blow to the ankle suffered against Chievo. In all 21 players have been called-up for the match against Roma:

Below is the complete list:

1 Buffon
2 Caceres
3 Chiellini
4 Felipe Melo
5 Cannavaro
8 Marchisio
9 Iaquinta
10 Del Piero
11 Amauri
12 Chimenti
13 Manninger
16 Camoranesi
17 Trezeguet
18 Poulsen
19 Molinaro
20 Giovinco
21 Grygera
28 Diego
29 De Ceglie
30 Tiago
33 Legrottaglie

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Champions League: Juventus drawn in Group A

If anyone had hoped for a soft start in this year’s Champions League, he will surely be disappointed as the bianconeri were drawn in Group A together with Bayern Munich, Bordeaux and Maccabi Haifa.

It is hard to judge the difficulty of a group but one thing is certain: Group A (the one of Juventus is definitely not an easy one). The bianconeri avoided the 4 English teams in the first pot and also FC Barcelona, but none the less the top seeds in their group are definitely not an easy team: Bayern Munich will be a tough bone to chew as will also be French champions Bordeaux and Israeli side Maccabi Haifa (the only team to already have taken part in the tournament from amongst the fourth seeds).

Juventus will play the first match of the group stage in mid-September. In the mean time below are the Groups as drawn tonight in Monaco:

Group A
Bayern Munich (Germany)
JUVENTUS
Girondins Bordeaux (France)
Maccabi Haifa (Israel)

Good news for Sissoko

Juventus today had a morning training session with the bianconeri taking part in a mini-match on the full field at high intensity. Zebina and Salihamidzic remained in the gym where Brazzo began a programme of functional athletic preparation with the possibility of him being available for the next championship match.

Ferrara fielded Martin Caceres as right fullback and the Uruguay national was a protagonist of a good performance even scoring a goal thanks to a powerful shot from outside the area ending in the corner of the net.

Felipe Melo and Diego worked separately with professor Gaudino. The former, due to a slight muscle strain to his left thigh while the latter due to a general muscle strain. Up to now both should be available for the match on Sunday afternoon.

Good news with regards to Momo Sissoko:

Following a consultation with Dott. Frenet and the instrumental tests (x-ray and scintograph) the healing of the inflammation is progressing well. In the next 15 days Momo will see the physiotherapy treatment being intensified just like the programme for the maintenance of the general muscular toning. After this Sissoko will get back to running and next will take part in specific training at the Juventus Center in Vinovo.

juventus.com

Giorgio Chiellini: Partnership With Fabio Cannavaro At Juventus Must Still Improve

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini has explained how he is hoping to improve the partnership he has with Fabio Cannavaro and step it up to the same level he has enjoyed with Nicola Legrottaglie.

This is the first season in which Chiellini has played with Cannavaro, so the young defender is also hoping to learn a lot from the Italian national team’s captain.

"Now Legrottaglie and I play with eyes closed together as I'm used to playing with him," affirmed the former Fiorentina player to calcioblog.it.

"The understanding is very important for a central duo. Cannavaro had played so much with [Lilian] Thuram that he created an exceptional understanding, but we still need to improve.

"Playing together in the national team improves our automatism. Right now there's a lot of talk about Chiellini and Cannavaro, but I'm sure that Legrottaglie will play many games."

The 25-year-old defender has been at Juventus since 2005, and since then has played a total of f 107 league games and scored 10 goals for the club.

Goal.com

Juventus Sign Rafinha From Schalke 04

Juventus have signed Brazilian right back Rafinha from Schalke 04 for €8 million, according to Sportmediaset.

There is no official confirmation from either of the two clubs, but it is expected to arrive shortly.

Juventus have had a high profile summer in the transfer market, already signing Felipe Melo, Diego, Fabio Cannavaro, and Martin Caceres on loan, and had stated a couple of weeks ago that they would be bringing in no further players.

However, the full back positions looked far from secure in the latter part of pre-season, and now Juventus have moved to strengthen their right back area by purchasing Rafinha, a fast and attacking wingback who has been likened to Selecao legend Cafu.

Rafinha fell out with Schalke last summer after he insisted on competing in the Olympics. Without permission the Brazilian international travelled to China and incurred a €700,000 fine.

The full back has been linked with a host of top clubs this summer, including Milan, Barcelona and Chelsea, but it is Juventus it seems who have secured his signature.

Sportmediaset also claims that Rafinha will not be the last arrival in Turin before the end of the transfer window. Lyon’s Fabio Grosso will also be joining to fill the left back position, and this deal could be closed within a number of hours.

Goal.com

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Juventus Striker Amauri Hopes For Goal Against Roma

Juventus striker Amauri was active in the club's 1-0 win over Chievo on Sunday, but did not get on the scoresheet and has made that his priority in round two, when his side travel to Rome to face the Giallorossi.

"The goal for me is to score against Roma," he said when asked about hitting the post against Chievo.

"Diego? With him we can all play really well, myself, [Alessandro] Del Piero, and [Vincenzo] Iaquinta."

Amauri scored 13 goals in all competitions during his first season at Juventus and is looking to improve on that number in the 2009-10 campaign.

The player is also expected to receive his Italian passport very soon and has stated his desire to feature for the Azzurri. The 29-year-old is expected to start the match against Roma next weekend, even if Del Piero is slated to return from injury.

Goal.com

Juventus Nearing Deal For Lyon's Fabio Grosso As Rafinha Chase Stops

Juventus have abandoned their chase of Schalke's Rafinha and have focused their efforts on landing Fabio Grosso from Olympique Lyonnais.

According to Il Corriere Dello Sport, the Bianconeri are trying to reconcile requirements with budgetary constraints, leading them to give up on €12 million-rated Rafinha.

Coach Ciro Ferrara is working on adding strength to his defence, and Grosso has, once again, popped up on his shortlist. The Italian has been linked with Juve on numerous occasions.

The report suggests La Vecchia Signora cannot stretch to meet Schalke's asking price, and thus Rafinha no longer seems like an option.

Grosso, on the other hand, costs less. Lyon want around €2m, but the Italian side want to bargain and get that price down. However, the French are in no mood to comply.

It is said Juve will try to meet with Lyon's directors at next week's Champions League draw in Monaco in order to discuss Grosso further.
Goal.com

Monday, August 24, 2009

Diego: «Our objective is to win the championship»


The first match of Diego in the Serie A is much more then positive with the Brazilian champion distributing great balls and even putting in the ball for Iaquinta’s goal.

«I am distrubuting the ball which is what I am here to do. We are playing well and I am sure we can improve further and do well. Our objective is to win the chmapionship.
I am feeling better even if I am not at my 100% . I must still improve but I am sure that soon I will be able to give even more. We want to do well and our will will help us achieve results.The most important thing is understand and create space. Italian football is comparable to continental football and the most important thing is the feeling with my mates».

Ferrara: «Three important points and a great first half»

Three official matches and three victories for Ciro Ferrara since he took over the team at the end of last season. The Juventus coach, however, does not choose to speak of this, perhaps even due to superstition, and concentrates on the victory against Chievo «which bring three important points and especially the satisfaction to have seen the team playing well satisfying me in the first half because they played an excellent match» stated Ferrara who went on: «In the second half we were a bit tired. Another reason to be satisfied was having seen players who last year had problems like Poulsen and Tiago, playing an excellent match».

Obviously one cannot help but feel satisfied with Fabio Cannavaro’s debut complete with applause following the summer controversy: «It was not easy for him but I had no doubt that he would have played as best he knows and I am not even surprised by the applauses because the supporters know he is a champion and that his contribution is important».

After having commented «the excellent first half by Diego, who then decreased a bit in the second, as was imaginable, since he has been working only for two weeks on full-time with the team», the absence of Del Piero «who is still suffering of back pains» and the part-time employment of Camoranesi «who is recovering from an ankle injury and so not in the best condition», Ferrara answered the question about the advantage over Inter, who drew against Bari: «It does not count much. There is still a long way to go».

juventus.com

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Barcelona, Juventus Or Inter For The Champions League - Claudio Marchisio

Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio has made his Champions League predictions: Barcelona, Juventus and Inter are favourites.

Surprisingly, the Italian didn't mention last year's finalists Manchester United, the Galacticos of Real Madrid, or even Carlo Ancelotti's Chelsea.

Marchisio believes Juve's summer investments in players like Diego and Felipe Melo will pay dividends on the continent and on the domestic front.

"Barcelona have the greatest chance [of winning the Champions League] compared to the rest," Marchisio told Il Corriere Dello Sport.

"Inter are there after they strengthened, but we are also aiming to win the trophy."

Bitter rivals Inter have dominated Serie A in recent years, but the Italian star is confident of breaking the Nerazzurri's stranglehold.

"We have always been close to Inter, and now we have strengthened I think we are even stronger than they are," added Marchisio.

Diego has been the outstanding signing this summer, and Marchisio believes the Brazilian will help in the conquest for trophies.

"Diego is a true Brazilian. We are getting to know him better game after game, and he will make the difference for us," concluded the Italian.

Goal.com

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Training: Tiago in a separate session, Del Piero, first part with the group


Juventus continue with their preparation in view of their championship debut against Chievo on Sunday night at 20:45hrs at the Stadio Olimpico in Turin. The bianconeri’s morning session today was under the observation of Jean-Claude Blanc and Alessio Secco. After the warm-up, stretching and athletic work, the team took part in a mini-match on a reduced field. Alessandro Del Piero worked in the gym after having carried out the first part of session with the team. Tiago worked separately.

Bari Sign Unsettled Juventus Midfielder Sergio Almiron

Bari have reportedly signed midfielder Sergio Almiron from Juventus, with an official announcement expected in the near future, according to tuttomercatoweb.

The details of the deal have yet to be released, but the move is expected to be completed as the player is surplus to requirements for the Bianconeri.

The player impressed at Empoli from 2004 to 2007, before Juventus snapped him up for €9 million. However, he was unable to replicate the form he showed with the minnows and was declared a flop after making just 10 league appearances in his first season.

In 2008-09, he was sent on-loan to Fiorentina, but fared no better in Tuscany, putting in a number of lacklustre performances before being relegated to the bench.

Nonetheless, it seems Bari are willing to offer the Argentine midfielder another chance to prove himself as they look to avoid being sent back down to Serie B in the upcoming campaign.

No Contact With Barcelona Over Juventus Defender Zdenek Grygera - Agent

Barcelona have not made an approach for Juventus defender Zdenek Grygera, according to his agent Mino Raiola.

On Wednesday, the Italian media had linked Grygera with the Spanish champions, as well as a number of Turkish clubs. Reports claimed the 29-year-old would find limited chances following the arrivals of Fabio Cannavaro and Martin Caceres.

However, Raiola has other ideas as he quashes the rumours, claiming his man will remain in Turin.

"Barcelona? There has not been any contact with them and I don't know anything about it," Raiola told Tuttojuve.com.

"There is nothing new regarding my client and therefore no other discussions to make. He wants to stay at Juventus, and he does not want to leave."

Grygera arrived in Turin from Ajax in 2007 and his current deal with the Italian club expires in 2012.

Alessandro Del Piero: I Hope To Be There Against Chievo Verona

Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero is in confident mood, and hoping to play in the Serie A opener against Chievo Verona on Sunday night.

The captain has shaken off a recent back problem and he is in contention to feature as he aims to help Juve pick up their first points of the season.

"I am fine, the recovery is going well. I am aiming for Sunday and I should be available to play if everything goes well," Del Piero told the press.

"I hope I play and we are aiming to win. We want to start well, but it's the pitch that decides."

Winning the Scudetto is likely to be a race between Inter and the Old Lady. Del Piero believes his side have the qualities to wrestle the Tricolore from their bitter rivals.

"We have no reason to envy Inter. We know they are the team to beat based on the recent history.

"We have high quality and have strengthend well with the arrival of important players."

Del Piero has also defended Marcello Lippi from Jose Mourinho's recent jibes.

The Inter coach had claimed Lippi offended him when he predicted that Juventus would win the Scudetto, and a considerable row between both men followed.

"I hope Lippi doesn't make a mistake in his prediction seeing that he got it right last year," added the captain.

"Was it a lack of respect? I was not offended when he said Inter would win it last year. There was nothing wrong in it."

Juventus Add Borussia Dortmund Defender Neven Subotic To Hitlist

Juventus are trying to secure the services of Borussia Dortmund defender Neven Subotic, who is likely to arrive next season.

According to Il Corriere Dello Sport, Juve having been tracking Subotic for the last year.

A number of top sides are reportedly keen on the 20-year-old, but the Old Lady are trying to outfox the competition and reserve the player for next season.

Subotic has just renewed his deal with the Bundesliga outfit until 2014, and it is said his wages have been improved.

Nevertheless, Juve are ready to make their move. The Italian giants are considering a €12 million bid in order to secure his services ahead of next season.

The player has been added to a list that also contains Schalke's Rafinha and Cristian Zaccardo of Wolfsburg as coach Ciro Ferrara continues his defender search.

Earlier this month, Arsenal had reportedly shown an interest in Subotic, but the player's agent ruled that move out.