Juventus travel to the Artemio Franchi on Sunday looking to keep their European hopes alive. Luigi Del Neri remains optimistic, following the Bianconeri’s dramatic comeback last Sunday at home to Genoa. “The team are improving and continuing to grow with the return of the injured players. Even with the hot weather last Sunday, the players showed their good condition.”
The manager took the opportunity to emphasise the importance of each match being treated separately. “We have to take each fixture as it comes and only pay attention to our opponents in that game. Every clash allows us to stay in touch with the European positions and fight for our goal. It’s important to continue giving our all so we know we’ve done all we can.”
Fiorentina are currently lie 10th in Serie A and boast a strong home record. Sunday will see an intriguing battle with former Juventus striker Adrian Mutu, but Del Neri warned that the Viola are capable of causing danger from all positions. “Fiorentina have many key players. As a team they’re alert, aggressive, dynamic and they’ve had time to gel as a unit. Vargas is important for them, it’s vital we press him. Also Montolivo, technically speaking, is fundamental in the role he plays.”
Gigi Buffon is set to return to the starting line-up, having been sidelined for the last two fixtures with flu. Marco Storari has proved a capable deputy and Del Neri praised his contribution. “It’s understandable that Marco wants to play. He’s a valuable player with strong dedication to the cause and has my respect. However, I have no doubts regarding Buffon. He was injured but now he’s ready to play.”
The Bianconeri have recently shown their ability to adapt and change their system during the course of the game. Del Neri revealed that last Sunday’s win over Genoa wasn’t easy, and that he may consider tweaking his line-up for tomorrow. “After the own goal that put Genoa ahead last weekend, they shut up shop, played on the break and made it difficult for us. We are flexible and can change things in an instant. With Del Piero back and Toni scoring last week our options have increased, we can try something different.”
Juventus.com