Alessio Cerci is Capocannoniere and joked about Juventus” data-scaytid=”4″>Juventus rival Carlos Tevez. “He doesn’t have my left foot…”
Alessio Cerci is Capocannoniere and joked about Juventus rival Carlos Tevez. “He doesn’t have my left foot…”
The Torino winger has been transformed into a striker this season with great success, leaping to the top of the scorers’ charts with five goals in as many games.
He’ll come face to face with the Bianconeri and their star forward Tevez on Sunday at 11.30am UK time (10.30 GMT). Click here for a match preview.
“Tevez has extraordinary technique and quality, physical stamina and great character, which all together make him special. However, he doesn’t have my left foot… I might not have his right foot either, but he doesn’t have my left,” Cerci told Tuttosport.
“It is nice to feel like a reference point for this splendid squad. I see what we do during the week to improve and this too is why I’m happy to be important for the team. I arrived late for pre-season training because I was at the Confederations Cup and didn’t even know some of my teammates, but I immediately realised a real team unit was coming together.”
Cerci will face one of his former teammates on Sunday, as ex-Torino captain Angelo Ogbonna moved to Juventus this summer for €13m plus add-ons.
“I spoke to Angelo a few days ago, but we didn’t mention the Derby. I’d be pleased if he played because Angelo is a good lad who gave so much to Toro over the years and always behaved well within the squad.
“Juventus have defensive solidity under Antonio Conte and to create problems we’ll need to receive the ball close to the box. It’s all about being balanced and prepared at the back too.”
Cerci had been linked with some top clubs over the summer, including Napoli, Milan and Roma, but opted to remain at Torino.
“I have no regrets, but at the same time it’s normal that a player wants to be in the Champions League. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t.
“Was I close to leaving Torino? It wasn’t very clear, but I always said I wanted to remain. I am happy here, people love me at the club and I had no intention of moving on. If I had to analyse a proposal that couldn’t be refused, I would’ve done that too. After all, I’m 26 and the ambition is different to when you’re 20. That ambition is to play in the Champions League.”