The Inter midfielder was on the verge of a transfer before supporters staged such vociferous protests that the deal was scuppered.

“I know Stankovic, he is a very strong player and I would like to play alongside him,” insisted Nedved, another Lazio old boy.

The Czech made the statement on the first day of the Juventus pre-season training camp in Pinzolo.

The ground was peppered with banners from the fans, including some particularly cruel messages to Stankovic.

A banner from the ‘Viking’ ultras group read: ‘You spit upon our faith, you’ll never set foot on Juve ground.’

Despite the obvious problems this is causing within the wider Bianconeri community, Ranieri is still determined to bring Stankovic into the team.

“I am sure that after two or three games they’d forget the protests,” said the Coach.