Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Ranieri has opted to field Old Horse


The Bianconeri return to the competition for the first time in two years, following their Calciopoli imposed punishment which saw them relegated down to Serie B in the summer of 2006.

"In our first season back in Serie A, I was curious to see how we would fare," explained Ranieri.

"Now I am just as interested to see how we cope in the Champions League. It's been a long wait for some of these players but our determination and motivation are right.

“We have plenty of new players but we also have players with a wealth of experience at this level, players who have been an important part of the history of this club. They are more than ready."

Tonight Juve kick off Group H proceedings against UEFA Cup holders Zenit at the Stadio Olimpico in Turin, and competition for a starting place up-front has been hot, with Del Piero, Trezeguet, Amauri and Vincenzo Iaquint all fighting for two positions.

Ranieri has confirmed though that the long-serving Del Piero and Trezeguet who have been forward partners since 2000 will start.

"The fact they are vastly experienced came into it but the main reason I have selected Del Piero and Trezeguet is what they sacrificed for the club,” said the Tinkerman.

“They had Serie A and European football snatched away from them but decided to stay here and work for two hard years to get their side back where it belongs.

“I have so much respect for them. This is the main reason I decided to give them the chance to play."

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