Post by Taxigirl on Nov 9, 2003 10:53:42 GMT
Marcello Lippi has welcomed back the Juventus captain by proclaiming him one of the greatest players in the world.
“Alessandro Del Piero will give us an extra dimension as he is one of the best footballers on the planet,” insisted the Coach, “but that doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate those who have taken the field in his absence.”
The Bianconeri are undefeated in all competitions this season despite constantly rotating the squad.
Del Piero has been out of action since straining a calf muscle during the 2-2 draw with Roma and will make his comeback against Udinese.
“I have been saying this would be the date of his return for two weeks now,” pointed out Lippi.
“He was rested for the Champions’ League trip to Real Sociedad precisely so that he could be ready for this match.”
The Italian international’s timing is particularly apt, as Del Piero will return to the playing field on his 29th birthday.
“Alessandro will be in the starting line-up,” revealed the Coach, “and will play for at least an hour, possibly the whole 90 minutes.”
However, Lippi warns that the spotlight on Del Piero should not distract Juve from a tough test.
“We must maintain our momentum right up to the Christmas break, and to do that I must rotate the squad and keep everyone fresh.”
“Udinese are a side that have often caused us problems in the past,” he added, “and play some excellent football. We must remain concentrated.”