Grygera is unlikely hero
Juventus got back to winning ways thanks to an inspired performance from defender Zdenek Grygera.
The Czech international set-up David Trezeguet and scored in the Bianconeri’s 2-0 victory against Genoa at Marassi.
The versatile stopper came in at the last minute after left-back Cristian Molinaro was ruled out with a fever.
“I am very content and also happy. I want to play better in every game, especially after the match against Fiorentina,” Grygera told Sky Italia. “It has been a difficult period for us.”
Juve had gone three games without a win until last night’s triumph and talk of a crisis was mounting after the Turin giants crumbled, 3-2, at home to Fiorentina a week ago.
Bianconeri President Giovanni Cobolli Gigli came out on several occasions last week to deny Coach Claudio Ranieri’s job was in jeopardy.
The Tinkerman responded well under pressure and, as Giorgio Chiellini explains, made some crucial changes which ultimately swung the game in Genoa.
“We spoke with the Coach and agreed that Nicola Legrottaglie and I play well in the middle,” Chiellini noted. “We felt I would be better there than Grygera.
“Our strength is that of being short and compact on the pitch, even if it is risky at times.”
Chiellini also had words of encouragement for one of the Bianconeri’s other forgotten men, Tiago Mendes.
“We are convinced that he has the quality to become a great champion. We trust him and hope that he can find the space to show how strong he is.”
The Portuguese midfielder replaced Cristiano Zanetti, after he went off with a muscle problem, and performed well by hitting some good passes.
Tiago has only started five matches this season but could be set for a return to the first XI if Zanetti’s injury proves serious.
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