Wojciech Szczesny believes injuries to key players have affected Juventus this season and admits he felt ‘useless’ during his time on the sidelines.
The Poland international is expected to start against Maccabi Haifa tomorrow in the Champions League.
It’s a key fixture for the Serie A giants, who lost both their opening group stage games against PSG and Benfica.
On Sunday, the Old Lady won the first match in a month, beating Bologna 3-0 at the Allianz Stadium and Szczesny wants to see more or the same.
“We must have a similar attitude, calm and aware of difficulties in Champions League games. We know we need six points in the next two games,” he said at a press conference today.
“Serie A is very balanced, but now we have to focus on the Champions League. It makes no sense to think about the league, we are seven points behind and we must recover. We’ll get there.”
Juventus have won just three games out of 10 across all competitions this season, but several injured players, including Szczesny, have now returned to action and are ready to help the Bianconeri.
“There are many aspects that affected us at the start of the season,” said the goalkeeper.
“Having many players out due to injuries didn’t help. Now, a few players are back and are ready to help. We must do better also in difficult times. We have an important month ahead, we need points.
“This last month was tough, I felt useless, the team was struggling and I could not help, now I am back with enthusiasm.”
Mattia Perin replaced Szczesny during his time on the treatment table and impressed with some fine performances.
“We are friends, I love Mattia. After a tough moment, he returned here and proved to be a great goalkeeper. I am not surprised by his performances, he is always ready to help.
“It’s crucial not to concede, when we defend as a unit, it’s easier to attack and create trouble.”
Szczesny’s compatriot Arek Milik will be on the bench against Maccabi tomorrow due to slight muscle fatigue, but the ex-Arsenal goalkeeper is impressed by what the striker has shown at Juventus since his move from Marseille this summer.
“I’ve known Arek for a long time. He is a strong striker. I am surprised by the quality he puts on the pitch. He has a bit more space playing behind Vlahovic, he can create chances, I am happy with what he’s done. He has the Juventus DNA.”
Am I the only one who’s happier with Perin?
No, Ravanelli. He’s the Polish van der Sar
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