Post by Taxigirl on Dec 12, 2003 9:45:05 GMT
Juventus are still the team to beat in Italy, despite their recent slump, says Roma star Cristian Chivu.
The Bianconeri are currently third in the Division, four points behind Roma and Milan, yet the Romanian is not convinced of their demise.
"We’re leading with the Rossoneri but our main rivals are Juventus," stated the stopper. "Without obviously forgetting about Parma, Inter and Lazio."
Many fancy the Giallorossi for the Scudetto this term after their sensational start to the campaign.
"We want to win every game," he explained. "We’re all convinced of our ability and that allows us to play some excellent football.
"I recently saw a video tape of the Scudetto celebrations of 2001 and it looked fantastic."
Chivu was signed this summer from Ajax and he maintains he’s not surprised with what Roma have achieved so far.
"I was expecting us to be a very strong side because we have some great champions at this club," he noted.
Roma will have a chance to move clear at the top of the table this weekend with Milan away in Japan on Intercontinental Cup duty.
"It will be vital for us to win against Modena," he said. "That would allow us to go into the game against Milan on January 6 with an advantage."
Chivu finally commented on this year’s Golden Ball race. "I would give it to Francesco Totti who has been immense for club and country."