Juventus defender Benedikt Howedes expects a “very difficult” game against Napoli but “we’re strong and we can beat them”.
The two sides meet at the San Paolo on Friday night for what is being billed as an early Scudetto showdown, and the Bianconeri will slip seven points behind if they lost to the league leaders.
“It will be a very important game,” Howedes acknowledged, speaking to Tuttosport.
Juventus defender Benedikt Howedes expects a “very difficult” game against Napoli but “we’re strong and we can beat them”.
The two sides meet at the San Paolo on Friday night for what is being billed as an early Scudetto showdown, and the Bianconeri will slip seven points behind if they lost to the league leaders.
“It will be a very important game,” Howedes acknowledged, speaking to Tuttosport.
“It’s also very difficult, it will be a particularly tough game and a very competitive one. We’re strong though, and we can beat them.
“Napoli are in great form and are doing well, but we want to get back to the top of the table. On Friday we have the chance to close the gap in the standings.”
Howedes joined on loan from Schalke in the summer, but only made his first appearance against Crotone at the weekend.
With Leonardo Bonucci leaving to join Milan in the summer the German was seen as a replacement, but he shrugged off those comparisons.
“Bonucci is Bonucci, it’s pointless making comparisons. I try to give my best, and I’m happy that I helped the team with my contribution.
“We have a fantastic squad, we can play with a three or a four man defence, so I have excellent teammates.
“I can also play on the left or the right, against Crotone I was in the centre and I’m available wherever the Coach [Max Allegri] wants me.
“It will depend on the choices the Coach makes based on our opponents, since our strength will be knowing how to change it.
“My nose injury against Crotone? It’s not broken, thankfully. I just took a hard knock and I cut my nose.
“In the end we won and it was very important for us. I’m happy to have played for Juve, but it’s just the beginning.”