Nedved ready to return Monday 23 August, 2004
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Pavel Nedved has declared himself fit enough to play in Juventus’ crucial Champions’ League tie this week.
The Bianconeri must win at Djurgarden on Wednesday to qualify after a surprise 2-2 draw in Turin.
Nedved missed the first leg with the injury he sustained at Euro 2004 but he’s now available for selection after appearing at the weekend.
The Czech ace featured in the 5-0 win over Berretti and impressed boss Fabio Capello with a decent display.
"My knee gave me no problems even if I still need to understand how fit I am right now," stated the European Footballer of the Year.
"I’m still working very hard in an effort to keep improving even if the team is still strong without me.
"I’m not irreplaceable for Juventus and all that matters is that the club make it into the Champions’ League."
Capello stated: "I was pleased with Nedved even if I will have to assess what part he will play in Sweden."
Whispers suggest that the midfielder will start though, with the tactician set to field a 4-4-2 formation.
Probable line-up: Buffon; Birindelli, Thuram, Montero, Zambrotta; Blasi, Emerson, Tacchinardi, Nedved; Del Piero, Trezeguet.