Ranieri's "extraordinary" Juve

Ranieri's "extraordinary" Juve
Sunday 27 April, 2008

Claudio Ranieri has taken Juventus into the Champions League in an “extraordinary” season, but Lazio’s Delio Rossi is furious with his team.

Today’s 5-2 victory in Turin secured a spot in the preliminary round of European club football’s most prestigious competition next season.

“I must thank everyone who works here for all they have done this season,” said the Coach of the newly promoted side.

“To be third with three rounds to go is an extraordinary result. I must compliment the youngest players too, as they immediately picked up the winning mentality.

“This squad has followed my suggestions from the very first day of pre-season training and you have seen that spirit throughout the campaign.”

Alessandro Del Piero was on target again in the 5-2 win, as was current Capocannoniere David Trezeguet.

“We did a great deal in the first half and rather took our foot off the gas in the second, perhaps because our advantage seemed reassuringly solid. It was important to win today and we did with a positive performance.”

Lazio boss Rossi had warned his side not to be complacent ahead of this match, but his fears were realised.

“Right from the start there was a blackout. It’s inexplicable. It’s no shame to lose to Juventus in Turin, but not like this.”

The Biancocelesti have nothing left to play for in Serie A, so they preserved energy for the Coppa Italia semi-final with Inter.

“There is no justification and this whole approach is wrong. Lazio cannot embarrass themselves this way.

“If I see performances like this then I think nobody at Lazio deserves to stay next season.”

*channel4