Alex Sandro insists the draw with Tottenham Hotspur was “not a negative result” and his “only thought has always been Juventus.”

The Bianconeri were held to a 2-2 draw by Tottenham in the Champions League midweek, but have another tough test on Sunday with the Derby delle Mole against local rivals Torino.

That kicks off at 11.30 GMT, click here for a match preview.

Alex Sandro insists the draw with Tottenham Hotspur was “not a negative result” and his “only thought has always been Juventus.”

The Bianconeri were held to a 2-2 draw by Tottenham in the Champions League midweek, but have another tough test on Sunday with the Derby delle Mole against local rivals Torino.

That kicks off at 11.30 GMT, click here for a match preview.

“We’ve got to maintain high concentration levels, whether in Serie A or the Champions League,” the Brazilian told Sky Sport Italia.

“We are ready, we approach the derby with a positive spirit and have worked well over the last few days.”

Although Juve fumbled a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 at home with Spurs in the Champions League Round of 16, Alex Sandro doesn’t understand the criticism.

“A draw with Tottenham was not a negative result: we put in a great performance, just as our opponents did. It’s always going to be difficult in the Champions League, but now we’re heading to London with the intention of winning, as we know we can do it.”

Alex Sandro scored a goal against Torino earlier this term, so is particularly looking forward to this fixture.

“It is rare for me to score with a header, but it felt great. It was a routine we practice in training, running to the near post, and it went well. I want to score more regularly, including my first in the Champions League.

“Torino will press us hard, as they are physically strong with good individuals like M’Baye Niang, Iago Falque and Tomas Rincon. I have a good rapport with Tomas, as we are no longer teammates, but still live in the same building. We chat often, although this week it’s probably best not to cross paths too often…

“We have Paulo Dybala back, which allows us to raise the quality level of our team, and Gonzalo Higuain is simply an extraordinary striker who could get one, two or even three goals in the derby.”

The subject of transfer speculation with Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United last term, Alex Sandro has at times looked like a shadow of his former self this season.

“It’s normal for a player to have dips in form, but I never listened to the rumours about me. I always remained concentrated on my work and my only thought has always been Juventus, as I have another two years on my contract.

“I feel really good and am satisfied with my condition today. My objective is first of all to win everything with Juve, then I hope to earn a call-up for Brazil at the World Cup.”

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