Post by Taxigirl on Dec 7, 2003 12:13:11 GMT
Marcello Lippi admits he wanted to substitute his entire squad halfway through their shock 2-0 defeat at Lazio.
“I can say in all honesty that if I had the opportunity I would have changed seven or eight players at half-time,” confessed the Juventus Coach.
“Those substituted should not feel they are at fault, because the worst culprits are the Coach and training staff. It isn’t possible that this squad presents itself in this manner.”
Paolo Montero, David Trezeguet and Mauro Camoranesi made way for Ciro Ferrara, Marco Di Vaio and Enzo Maresca during the break.
“Three changes at half-time were a big risk, especially as an injury would leave us in ten men, but something had to be done to change this dreadful performance.”
The Bianconeri are continuing to struggle with a third defeat on the trot to Inter, Galatasaray and now Lazio.
“The team was absolutely not prepared for this game and not up to the challenge. I refused to speak of a crisis at the club as I maintain it an exaggerated term after going unbeaten for the whole campaign.”
“However,” added Lippi, “the last two or three weeks have been disappointing and we are effectively below par right now.”
“Everybody is struggling at the moment and we should not single individuals or areas of the side out for particular criticism. We were awful all over the park.”
Juventus were perhaps denied a penalty when Giuliano Giannichedda handled in the box, but the Coach refused to accept alibis.
“I don’t think it right to zero in on one incident following a game like this in which we were comprehensively outplayed.”
“I am not angry with my players as they gave the fans so much joy over the last few years. I am disappointed as many of them are currently below par.”
The Scudetto holders are now four points adrift of leaders Milan and have a very poor defensive record.
“I will not change system as we already have several different tactics and rotate them based on our opponents and the players at our disposal,” insisted Lippi.
The tactician had maintained he would never leave out Alessandro Del Piero, but the off-form captain could be forced to make way.
“There is no need to panic, but I will continue to make individual choices with each passing game. If a player deserves to be there more than another then I shall make that decision.”