Crisis Is A Big Word - Legrottaglie

Crisis Is A Big Word - Legrottaglie
Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie feels the negativity surrounding the team at the moment is exaggerated.


Juventus' last victory came almost three weeks ago in the away game against Cagliari, in which Amauri's solitary goal allowed the Bianconeri to talk away with three precious points. Since then, they have picked up three draws, two in Serie A and one in the Champions League, and one defeat, in their most recent match against Palermo.

Is that enough to say they are in a crisis? While that might seem a bit harsh, at Juve expectations are always sky high as the team is expected to challenge for major honors every season. However, defender Nicola Legrottaglie feels the team have been getting too much flak recently.

"Crisis is a big word, I think, because when a team draws a few games too many, or loses once, it's not a crisis, it's just a moment of reflection, which we can get out of with calmness and tranquility," he said.

"If something's not going well, then some players haven't been giving their all lately. Obviously, the old guard has to give something extra, because their personality and experience can help other players, who are perhaps used to playing at Empoli, Siena, or Chievo, which is completely different.

"I know what it's like, it's not easy, it's great to play for such an important team, but the Juventus shirt is a 'heavy' shirt. Nevertheless, they must try to enjoy and learn from this experience."

On the relationship between the team and under-fire coach Claudio Ranieri, Legrottaglie said: "In our dressing room there are some truly exceptional people, very professional. Ranieri knows us well, we know him well, we can understand each other with just a look. Our strength is our unity, we have always been united, we showed it last year and two years ago.

"It will be the same this year, because Juve must fight for first place always, there are no excuses."

After the international break, the Bianconeri will be severely tested as they first travel to face an in-form Napoli side, before hosting Real Madrid a few days later.

Danilo Pochini,goal.com