Old Lady: Mission accomplished

Old Lady: Mission accomplished
Monday 28 April, 2008

Juventus have secured Champions League football and there’s an air of satisfaction in the Bianconeri camp.

The newly promoted Old Lady have put the Calciopoli chapter behind them and will finish in third place at worst on their return to the top flight.

“We couldn’t have got here faster,” director Jean-Claude Blanc enthused.

“From Serie B to the Champions League is a difficult journey, but it has been a good one. And we haven’t finished yet because there are three games left.

“We have to thank the players and the coaching staff. I never had doubts because work pays off.

“I also want to thank the fans who have given us so much since the pre-season training camp at Pinzolo.

“We have been inspired by the love of the fans, like Muhammad Ali in Kinshasa.

“We will keep trying to win until the end because Juve are Juve. Second place is possible mathematically. We can only hope that this sport has reserved another surprise for us.”

One of the biggest factors in Juventus’ superb season is Alessandro Del Piero’s inspirational form.

“Was Alex’s contract renewal a good deal? Yes, for both parties,” Blanc continued.

“We have benefited from a talismanic striker. He has done what we expected of him and we did what he expected of us.

“Will he be chosen for Euro 2008? I wouldn’t want to be in Roberto Donadoni’s position. It would be difficult not to choose such a champion, like David Trezeguet he has earned the call-up.”

Coach Claudio Ranieri also seemed contented with the way his men have performed.

“This side have always known how to react after defeats and a team comes together and gels with time,” he stressed.

“The most difficult moment? Possibly after the game against Fiorentina. The best was the win at San Siro against Inter.
\”What needs to change for next season? There isn’t anything to change, but there are improvements to be made and players to fill the gaps.

“Not playing in Cup competitions has made an enormous difference and we have taken full advantage.

“To get into the Champions League is a great achievement and we are on the right road back.

“The players are the raw material for success and as a Coach you have to make sure that they can co-exist. I have just done the job that I have always done as a tactician.

Ranieri concluded by joining Blanc in singing Del Piero’s praises and explaining the captain’s return to form.

“Out of my players, Del Piero has amazed me most,” the former Parma tactician said.

“Until December he wasn’t at his best because he was suffering with injury niggles. Then he found his best rhythm and here we are.”

*channel4