Ferrara awaits Juve decision Sunday 31 May, 2009
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ciro Ferrara acknowledges he would love to extend his spell on the Juventus bench, but it no longer depends on him.
“It has been a positive spell. I made that joke that I wanted to get seven points to show the players how important these two games were,” he said after beating Lazio 2-0.
“I must thank them for all the hard work they put in, those who played and those who didn't. Second place was very important for us and we achieved it.
“Respect is the crucial element of a relationship between a Coach and players. I thank the players, many of whom were my teammates, for giving me this chance. It makes everything easier to be in my position with that help.”
Some say Ferrara will progress from caretaker manager to permanent Coach, but other options are Antonio Conte and Bordeaux's Laurent Blanc.
“I don't know. Until a few days ago it seemed as if only Conte and I were going for this job. I hear Antonio is going to renew with Bari, in which case I'm perfectly happy to let the alternatives take themselves out of the running!
“When I sat on the bench I wasn't kidding myself, but at the same time I have a hope. Now I just wait to hear the club's decision, which hopefully will be next week.”
The Bianconeri have been criticised for not pushing Inter harder in the Scudetto race, but have already signed Diego for next season.
“Right now there is a difference, as Inter certainly deserved to win the Scudetto and have more belief in their abilities than anyone else.
“Having said that, Juve have improved from third place to second. It won't be easy, but we will give it our best.”
This match might've been Ferrara's last on the Juventus bench, but it was definitely the final step in Pavel Nedved's journey with the club.
“I was moved to salute a great champion like Nedved and it's a shame when you see him run and shoot the same way he did today.
“We must respect the choices of the individual and he received a wonderful ovation from the Stadio Olimpico.”
Channel 4