Boumsong's Newcastle comeback Sunday 29 July, 2007
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Jean-Alain Boumsong is determined to make his mark at Juventus as he prepares to face former club Newcastle United this afternoon.
“Since childhood and Michel Platini played for Juve, I was in love with the Bianconeri. They were always a dream for me. I’ve played in France, Scotland and England, but my objective was Juve.”
He had a rough time at St James Park from 2004 to 2006, but insists he is improving in Italy.
“One never stops learning. I need to do better physically and perhaps in terms of concentration. I have to find the right tactical unity with my new teammates, but that is true of everyone at the moment.”
The Frenchman had a shaky start to his Italian career with some defensive howlers, but is now fighting off bids from Besiktas, Bordeaux and Valencia.
“It’s very simple, I refused moves because I want to stay with Juve. As far as I am concerned, they are the greatest club in the world and I have no reason to leave,” he said.
“When I made the choice to come to Turin with the team in Serie B last summer, I surprised everyone. Many friends and teammates asked how I, an international, could accept playing in the Italian second division. It wasn’t a tough choice for me, I had no doubts.”
Whether or not it is a wise decision remains to be seen, as there has been a massive influx of defenders since Claudio Ranieri took over, with Gabriel Heinze reportedly also on the way.
“The directors know that there’s no point offering me other clubs. My place is here, even if I am aware there will be a lot of competition for places. I want to stay and work hard to give my best and earn a place in the squad,” he told ‘Tuttosport.’
“I don’t know if Ranieri knows me well, but I am convinced one has to earn chances in life, especially when playing for Juve. So every day I’ll try to prove my worth on the field and hope to extend my contract past the current 2010 expiry date.”
channel4