Totally understandable to give Marchisio the nod after his performance in the last match. It's important that a coach acknowledges a great contribution when it occurs and rewards a player for it. Marchisio deserves to start this match.
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Conte reaction when Marchisio scored against Cagliari
As I was saying last week; whoever is in better form should play. Pirlo, still an excellent player despite of his age, but not quite fundamental as in previous years, has looked rather sluggish lately and the only logical solution is to give him a little rest.
Pirlo may also be feeling a bit down, due to finalizing his divorce this week. Andrea is a very emotional man, and it's not unlikely it's affecting him right now.