Stand-in Coach Massimo Carrera welcomes back Lucio and insists tomorrow’s game with Genoa is “every bit as crucial” as the Champions League trip to Chelsea.
There are reports Antonio Conte and his touchline replacement are planning a squad rotation ahead of Wednesday night’s European debut.
Stand-in Coach Massimo Carrera welcomes back Lucio and insists tomorrow’s game with Genoa is “every bit as crucial” as the Champions League trip to Chelsea.
There are reports Antonio Conte and his touchline replacement are planning a squad rotation ahead of Wednesday night’s European debut.
“This game is every bit as crucial as Chelsea,” warned Carrera in his Press conference. Click here for a match preview.
“We are facing a difficult side in a fiery atmosphere like Marassi. Plus, when Juventus” data-scaytid=”8″>Juventus come to town there is always a surge in motivation and determination from our opponents.
“We have to fight them on the same level with that degree of passion. Don’t forget last season Genoa took points off us both home and away.”
When asked whether they would field a second-string side against the Grifone, Carrera skirted around the semantics.
“Squad rotation is the wrong term, because we do not have first choice picks and reserves. Every time we will put out the side that can give us the best guarantees.
“It’s important for a player to step on to the pitch, regardless of the opponent or whether it’s the Champions League or Serie A.
“Fortunately we have options to choose from. Lucio has recovered, so has Nicklas Bendtner, while Mauricio Isla played 76 minutes with Chile and is available.
“Will Andrea Pirlo be rested? He is a champion and knows how to deal with his energy levels.”
Sebastian Giovinco is reportedly set to sign a contract extension until June 2017.
“Sebastian is a great player and proved it over the last few games, so like many other players he could become a symbol of Juventus,” noted Carrera.
“We have many talented stars, as it’s no coincidence we won the Scudetto last season. More have arrived and so everyone is to be considered important.”