Substitution saddens Del Piero
Monday 18 April, 2005
Juventus are back in control of the Scudetto race but captain Alessandro Del Piero is not a happy man.
The No 10 left the Delle Alpi with a long face on Sunday after he was substituted at half-time during the 5-2 win over Lecce.
"It is clear that Del Piero wasn’t happy but the fact that players are replaced is part of the game," stated director general Luciano Moggi.
"We know that Alex is a champion and that is clear by the amount of goals he has scored this season.
"There are no doubts over his ability as a player, but when he’s not in great form then it is right that he is substituted."
The Italian has been recalled to the bench frequently this term, after seemingly failing to convince boss Fabio Capello of his ability.
Although Del Piero has scored 15 goals – 12 in the League, three in Europe – he has only finished five Serie A games and two Champions’ League matches.
"I decided to take Del Piero off at half-time after evaluating the first 45 minutes," explained Capello yesterday evening.
"I have a squad at my disposal and that is what I base my team selections on, even if I can make mistakes."
Capello was perhaps hinting at the fact that Marcelo Zalayeta, who replaced Del Piero, didn’t have a great game against Lecce.