Alessio eyes return to winning ways

Angelo Alessio has reiterated the Bianconeri’s mission statement for tomorrow’s decisive encounter with Danish champions Nordsjaelland. The 47-year-old is aware that Juventus can afford no further slip ups if they are to get their Champions League campaign back on track in front of a passionate crowd at Juventus Stadium on Wednesday night. With future progress also hinging on the outcome of upcoming meetings with Chelsea and Shakhtar, Alessio appreciates the time has arrived for the Bianconeri to chalk up their first European victory of the season.  Speaking from a pre-match press conference at Juventus Center, Alessio said: “We understand the importance of this game. It’s an encounter to be won at all costs. In order to do this we need to be determined and hungry to get the result. We’re aiming to progress in the Champions League and get through to the last-sixteen."

 “But we also acknowledge that we’re still developing as a side. Let’s not forget where we started out and the fact that we have many players experiencing this competition for the first time. The words of expert coaches like Mancini and Ancelotti make you realise that it can take a number of years to be ready to win such an important trophy.”

 When questioned about tomorrow’s potential starting line-up, Alessio disclosed that Alessandro Matri will be handed the opportunity to impress after a recent spell on the substitutes bench. “Matri will start tomorrow and will be partnered by either Quagliarella or Giovinco. Conte’s made that decision because he believes Alessandro is ideal for this game. Vucinic? We’ll hope to have him back for Pescara. However, we’re happy with our strikers and believe in the quality they possess.”

 The recent war of words surrounding last Saturday’s home defeat to Inter shows no signs of abating, with Alessio taking the opportunity to provide his view on the conduct of those in the Nerazzurri camp. “Last year, when we won in Milan, none of us complained about the penalty that wasn’t awarded for a foul on Marchisio or the failure to send Castellazzi off. Looking at Inter, let’s recall the penalty that Catania weren’t given and the goal they scored against Sampdoria when Nagatomo was in an offside position."

 “I think it’s too easy to have a go at referees. As far as I’m concerned they should always be defended and not just when incidents go in your favour. Unfortunately, referees can’t quietly go about their duties in this environment. If we let them get on with their job we’d all reap the benefits.”

Juventus.com