Post by Taxigirl on Jan 26, 2004 9:59:54 GMT
Juventus have conceded 21 goals in 18 games, but Marcello Lippi insists they won’t bring in new defenders.
“When a team scores a lot of goals then that is down to the overall attitude of the side,” maintained the Bianconeri boss. “The same applies to the defence.”
Tonight’s 3-3 draw at Empoli prevented the reigning Champions closing the gap on Roma and Milan and once again highlighted their frailties at the back.
“I can’t remember the last time we let in so many goals with such alarming regularity,” admitted Lippi. “In previous years we almost always had the strongest defence in Serie A and this is a worrying trend that needs to be worked on.”
The problems suffered against Empoli will fuel reports that Juve are making a January bid for Parma captain Matteo Ferrari.
“We already have nine defenders at our disposal. There will be no new signings this month because we quite simply do not need them.”
David Trezeguet’s hat-trick allowed the Turin side to recover a point from this match and boosted his confidence following some poor form.
“Trezeguet is ready to sign his contract extension and that allows him to play with a more relaxed state of mind,” concluded Lippi. “He is an important player for us and an excellent goal scorer.”
Empoli’s hero of the hour is Tommaso Rocchi, who bagged a hat-trick tonight and the winner at Inter last Sunday.
“It isn’t easy to get three goals past a side like Juventus,” commented the striker. “It’s a wonderful time for me as this week I also extended my contract with the club.”
Rocchi is not in fact a centre-forward by trade, but has adapted to this role following injuries and transfer problems.
“I have a lot left to prove,” he added, “but I am happy that we showed everyone Empoli are a team to be reckoned with. I only score so many because my teammates provide the best possible support.”
This result allows the Tuscans to clamber free of the drop zone, although they would still be headed for a play-off with the sixth-placed Serie B side.