Del Neri 'We must beat Inter'
In the run up to the big match against Inter, Juventus boss, Luigi Del Neri, said in a press conference: “We’re in good shape and the group is stronger and more balanced, having recovered some injured players and through the recent signings we’ve made.”
"Inter have been in excellent form since Leonardo replaced Rafael Benitez, and the Bianconeri manager has called for a focused effort from his side. “We need to play well, with a high intensity. It’s a great match, full of passion, emotion and one that’s of extreme importance to our fans and the club. Benitez is a great manager but struggled with injuries. Since arriving, Leonardo has done a fine job, helped by the likes of Zanetti who is an exemplary player in every sense.”
The topic then turned to the setup of Juve’s side, and the specific roles filled by Giorgio Chiellini and Claudio Marchisio. In Cagliari, Bonucci’s return from suspension saw Chiellini start at left-back, a role that he again fulfilled midweek for the national side. “At the moment, Giorgio will play left-back until our other left sided options regain fitness. We’ll see what happens, for me a player is a player.”
This season has also seen Claudio Marchisio adopt a number of different roles across the midfield, and Del Neri was asked if he regards him as a wide man or a central midfielder. “The organisation of the team is the most crucial element, but wherever Marchisio’s played he’s been effective and scored important goals. He’s a key player for us in any role.” Much has been made this week of the meeting between the two big signings of the January transfer window, Alessandro Matri and Giampaolo Pazzini. Del Neri, however, reduced the heat by acknowledging the merits of both players. “They’re talented individuals, not only in football. They both possess a good character, and the game needs more players like them. I hope Matri does well here and that Pazzini has a successful career, starting after tomorrow’s match, of course!”
