Marrone at home in defence

Luca Marrone has thanked his teammates for helping him settle into a new defensive role for Italian champions Juventus.

The midfielder, 22, was used in the middle of a back-three against Parma because of fitness issues to Giorgio Chiellini, Lucio and Martin Caceres.

Luca Marrone has thanked his teammates for helping him settle into a new defensive role for Italian champions Juventus.

The midfielder, 22, was used in the middle of a back-three against Parma because of fitness issues to Giorgio Chiellini, Lucio and Martin Caceres.

“The most important thing is that I felt at home thanks to the help of my more experienced colleagues,” the Italian Under-21 international told Juventus Channel.

“The toughest thing to take on board as a defender is the tactical aspect. You need to maintain your concentration at all times and make the right movements when covering.

“On the other hand I feel at ease when setting up the play. I operate practically 10 metres behind Andrea Pirlo and have to act as a sweeper.

“In any case there’s a lot to work on during the week and I’m helped by the advice from both staff and fellow teammates.”

Marrone was rarely used by boss Antonio Conte last term, but he is hoping to make more of an impact this time around.

“I’m happy with how everything’s going,” he commented. “I want to show even more and establish myself as a Juventus player.”