Blog: Insult to injury
David Trezeguet is ready to return to action for Juventus, but Paul Watson thinks his injury may have cost him dear
Last season, Trezeguet was phenomenal. The French international bagged 20 goals for the Bianconeri and provided a hatful of assists in a lethal partnership with Alessandro Del Piero.
The addition of Brazilian ace Amauri in pre-season caused speculation that Trez's position at Juve could be compromised, but he was ready and willing to fight for his place as the season started.
However, disaster struck when the former Monaco man was struck down by a knee tendon injury in September. After surgery and two months of rehabilitation, Trezeguet is raring to go and expected to be match fit by January, but the timing of his injury could hardly have been worse.
In truth, Juve have forgotten the man who inspired last season's success. During his absence, Amauri has emerged as Del Piero's perfect match. The duo have clicked on and off the pitch and the new-look Old Lady cuts an altogether more intimidating figure.
Pinturricchio's old flame already seems like a name from the past and the Press have been quick to link him with a transfer to Spanish giants Real Madrid. Maybe it's an overreaction, but Trez will need some time to rediscover his former self and Claudio Ranieri is unlikely to present him with a run in the side if he doesn't immediately cut the mustard. At the age of 31, he really can't afford to be sitting around.
The sight of proven marksman Vincenzo Iaquinta and rising star Sebastian Giovinco cooling their heels on the sidelines will be a worrying sign for the 2007-08 veteran. A battle-hardy, experience goal-getter is always an asset for a side competing on all fronts, but Trez may have been missing in action for a little too long.
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