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| Ranieri thanks Il Capitano |
Sunday 11 January, 2009 |
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Claudio Ranieri points out he “knew it would be tough against Siena” and thanked captain Alessandro Del Piero.
“We knew that this was not going to be an easy opponent to take on, as Marco Giampaolo's men played a great game and we must acknowledge that,” said the Coach after a 1-0 victory.
The result was only decided when Del Piero curled in one of his trademark free kicks, taking Juve within four points of leaders Inter.
“Even in the least impressive days for the team, he always manages to bring something out of the hat. He has a great shot and excellent aim.
“When you are having trouble breaking the deadlock in these matches, when the opposition are putting constant pressure on you, one needs a champion like Del Piero.
“As for Inter, we must not only focus on them, as we saw how well Cagliari did yesterday and how Siena pushed us today. There are no easy games this season.”
Gianluigi Buffon should be fit for the next Serie A match, so Alex Manninger will return to the bench.
“Manninger has done very well, keeping the defence calm and relaxed. We conceded very few goals and he is only a second choice because he plays for Juventus,” added Ranieri.
“We hope to get many more players back from injury as soon as possible, but those who played during this period have been exceptional.”
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Wk18: Alex re-opens the Scudetto
Alex Del Piero's sublime free kick put Juve within four points of Inter, but it's a double disaster for Fiorentina. Napoli, Lazio and Palermo pip thrillers. Reports |
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