Juventus have Del doubt
Monday 18 October, 2004
Alex Del Piero is in the Juventus squad to face Bayern Munich but he remains a doubt for the game.
The captain has spent the last 15 days on the sidelines in an attempt to cure an Achilles’ tendon problem.
Boss Fabio Capello has included him in his plans for the Champions’ League tie but he’s unsure whether the Italian will be available.
"Del Piero has been called-up for Tuesday’s match but a decision on his use will be made in the morning," said the tactician. "It all depends on how the night passes.
"If he says he’s ready to play then he’ll probably start the game, even if I doubt that he will be able to complete 90 minutes."
With or without Alex, Juventus know that they are in for a tough game against the German giants.
"They are a side who have a few problems domestically but are doing very well in the Champions’ League," added Capello.
"I would say that they are more difficult to face on their travels rather than in Munich. They wait for sides to attack them and then hit on the counter.
"They also have an attacker in Makaay who is very good at finishing off the work of his teammates."
Bayern, who have arrived in Turin without Pizarro and Hargreaves, are joint top of the group with Juventus as both sides have won their two games so far.
Juve will again be unable to count on David Trezeguet, who will have shoulder surgery in France on Tuesday.
"He is deadly in front of goal but we have other players who can do well, even if they don’t have his characteristics," added Capello.
"We are doing fine though even without Del Piero and Trezeguet because my side has found a certain balance.
"I also have Zlatan Ibrahimovic who is adapting well to the Italian game. Don’t forget that it took Zinedine Zidane four months, while I’m happy with Marcelo Zalayeta."
Juventus (probable): Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Blasi, Emerson, Nedved; Del Piero (Zalayeta), Ibrahimovic
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