Nedved reveals family factor

Nedved reveals family factor
Friday 16 May, 2008

Juventus winger Pavel Nedved has revealed that his family played a vital role in persuading him to sign a new deal with the Old Lady.

The Czech international had admitted he was considering retirement at the age of 35, despite enjoying an inspirational campaign for the Bianconeri.

However, after two rounds of talks with the Turin giants, Nedved agreed to stay on for another season.

“It wasn’t a difficult renewal,” he insisted on Sky Sport Italia.

“The hardest thing was convincing myself to continue, but then there is always time for retirement.

“For me, the main thing was to think about Juventus, even though I had some good opportunities elsewhere.

“But I wouldn’t still be playing if it weren’t for the Champions League.

“I am a whiner and I am always complaining, but when I get something in my head I really want to achieve it.”

While Nedved’s determination to deliver European glory to the Juve fans is clearly a strong motive for his decision, it seems that his home life also played a significant part.

“Speaking to my wife gave me the right motivation when I was edging towards retiring,” he confessed.

“And my son, who has hasn’t been particularly interested in football until recently, has been watching all the Champions League games on TV this year.

“We hardly talk about football at all at home and so that amazed me. I thought that if my son watches the Champions League then that’s a further reason to continue.”

*channel4