Lippi hails exemplary Del Piero
Wednesday 9 November, 2005
Italy boss Marcello Lippi issued some kind words to Alessandro Del Piero on his 31st birthday, referring to him as ‘an example to all’.
The Coach was speaking at the national team headquarters in Coverciano today, as his side prepared for their upcoming friendlies against Holland and the Ivory Coast, and was quick to lavish praise on one of Italy’s favourite sons.
"Del Piero is a champion with extraordinary technical ability and wonderful characteristics," Lippi said.
"He is aware of his strengths and, even though he isn’t playing a huge amount, when he is selected he never disappoints. He is an example to us all."
Del Piero, who is celebrating his birthday with his international teammates on Wednesday, has not played regularly for Juventus under Fabio Capello but there is no question of Pinturicchio moving on, according to his agent.
"Turin and Juventus are his life," said Mario Miyakawa, one of Del Piero’s two representatives.
"We have never been short of offers, especially from abroad, but Alex has only ever thought of wearing the black and white of Juve.
"He is very attached to the club and Turin for him does not only mean his football club, but his home and his life too."
The 31-year-old, whose contract has four years left to run, has been with the Bianconeri since 1993 and built a reputation as one of the greatest players in the history of the club.
He has won six Serie A titles, one Champions League and has played 68 times for his country.