Serie A Preview: Livorno-Juventus
Surprise package Livorno take on the league leaders in what is certain to be an exciting encounter at the Armando Picchi stadium. New manager Carlo Mazzone will be keen to show the Livorno fans that a he is a worthy replacement for departed idol Donadoni.
BACKGROUND
It was way back in February that Livorno last managed a win after the club secured a 2-0 victory over visiting Fiorentina. Since that day Livorno has failed to produce the results that had become a regular occurrence under their former manager Roberto Donadoni. New manager Mazzone will need to get his side back on the winning trail is they are to remain with the top placed teams in Serie A. With teams such as Lazio and Chievo lurking only a few points behind, Mazzone’s men need points quickly if they are to maintain their league position.
Juventus are now ten points clear at the top and seemingly destined for another Scudetto triumph. With the club’s stunning domestic form and continual involvement in the Champions League, Juve fans could not ask for more. Capello will not let his side grow complacent against Livorno. The Bianconeri’s real strength this term is the depth of what is a hugely talented squad. With the likes of Mutu, Kovac Blasi and Abbiati as backups Juve are covered in every position.
TEAM NEWS
Livorno:
Lucarelli will begin this clash on the bench and will be replace by Bakayoko. Mazzone has juggled his players around hoping for an upturn in form. Coco will play after recovering from a training nock.
Juventus:
Trezeguet will partner Del Piero as Ibrahimovic is dropped to the bench. Zambrotta is still not 100% fit and will begin on the bench. The only other surprise is the inclusion of Zebina at right back.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Livorno:
Coco has had a terrible time with injury and has only started to play regularly this season. The former international has been in good form and has shown that he still has what it takes at the highest level. If the former Milan, Inter and Barcelona player can stay free from injury, he will be a massive asset to Mazzone’s side.
Juventus:
All eyes were on Vieira as Juve’s Champions League opponents were announced. Vieira has adapted well since moving from Arsenal and he will want to warm up for that encounter with some good league performances for the Bianconeri. Vieira is unstoppable on his day and Livorno will have to contain him in the centre of the park.
PROBABLE STARTING XIs
Livorno:
Amelia; Gardoni, Vargas, Galante, Pfertzel; Morrone, Ruotolo, Argilli, Coco; Clucci, Bakayoko.
Juventus:
Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Barzagli Camoranesi; Emerson, Vieira; Nedved, Trezeguet, Del Piero
PREDICTION
Given their current form the bianconeri should ease past Livorno.
Livorno 0-2 Juventus