Lippi launches Super Subs Saturday 27 September, 2003
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Marcello Lippi has put the pressure on the so-called ‘Juve MkII’ to get a win at Reggina this evening.
“Juventus must prove that every player has the confidence and belief in his own abilities to make this team great,” announced the Coach.
“Everyone must prove they belong in a Bianconeri jersey. This year I have a team that is more complete than ever before, so I can change things around without losing out in terms of quality.”
The rotation of the squad comes into play this week due to the upcoming Champions’ League trip to Olympiakos, but above all is forced upon Lippi by injuries.
David Trezeguet
“took a knock to the ankle” and is also in doubt for Tuesday’s European tie, while Alessandro Del Piero has been ruled out until November with a calf strain.
Lilian Thuram, Nicola Legrottaglie, Antonio Conte, Gianluca Pessotto, Salvatore Fresi and Ruben Olivera have also stayed behind in Turin.
“I expect a wonderful response from the players who will take to the field at Reggio Calabria,” added Lippi.
“This must be a message to all the other clubs, but also to ourselves, to show Juventus can change five or six players but the solidity of the squad remains the same.”
Fabrizio Miccoli will be on the bench for the first time since he was rushed to hospital for an emergency appendectomy three weeks ago.
“Fabrizio is fine now,” noted the Coach, “but I am not accustomed to risking a player from the first minute after a serious injury.”
Marcelo Zalayeta has also just returned from muscular worries, so Marco Di Vaio will start as a lone striker with support from Mauro Camoranesi and Pavel Nedved.
Reggina are unbeaten so far this season, taking part in a series of spectacular draws against Sampdoria, Empoli and the most recent 4-4 scoreline at Brescia.
“Reggina is a strong and organised side with some good technique,” insisted the tactician. “They are prolific upfront and often take the lead in their games.”
The Amaranto also have a habit of losing those leads, having gone ahead only to be pegged back in every single game so far this season.
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See the part in bold!? I didn't add those quote marks! Hmmm this conspiracy theory is sounding good
