Juventus” data-scaytid=”1″>Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri has cooled the furore over the injury situation in Turin.
A number of the Old Lady squad have been sidelined in recent weeks, with Arturo Vidal the latest casualty.
Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri has cooled the furore over the injury situation in Turin.
A number of the Old Lady squad have been sidelined in recent weeks, with Arturo Vidal the latest casualty.
“Too much has been made of the injuries,” Allegri stated on Friday. “You all now that there are two or three players who have had problems for a few months.
“People like Andrea Barzagli and Arturo Vidal, whereas Giorgio Chielllini was suspended and he’s now training again.
“Barzagli could be on the bench tomorrow, Alvaro Morata will return, while Andrea Pirlo is on the road to recovery. And Carlos Tevez has no injury.
“I’ll talk to Carlos. He is fine and he wants to play, but I want to evaluate any risks as we have to start the Champions League campaign well too.
“Morata is available, but he hasn’t got 90 minutes in his legs. He’s in decent shape, but we expect a lot from him. As well as having speed, he has great quality.
“I have faith in the players at my disposal. The season is long and everyone will have to make a contribution.”
Following the Week 1 win at Chievo, Allegri will be looking for maximum points when Udinese visit on Saturday.
“Udinese are a difficult side to face. They are well built and Andrea Stramaccioni has inherited a good team from Francesco Guidolin.
“It will be a special game for me as it will be my first as Juventus boss at the Juventus Stadium. We’ll need the support of the fans.”
Allegri opted to stick with the 3-5-2 formation of his predecessor Antonio Conte in Verona and he will do again – even if confirming that Patrice Evra will play.
“Let’s be clear, it is not as if Juventus belong to one Coach if they play with a four at the back and another if they field three.
“Ripping up a system that has worked makes no sense. Also, if Barzagli and Chiellini are missing then a four-man defence is no good.
“Evra was an important signing and he’ll certainly play tomorrow. He can play in a four-man defence or a five-man midfield. He just has to get used to Italian football.”
Allegri was also questioned on Juventus’ title rivals this term.
“Roma have done some excellent things on the transfer market, Milan too.
“It will be a balanced championship and harder than last term. It will be decided in the last few weeks. Napoli are to be feared as well.”