azzurri's online diary - Juventus News October 02 to October 08

Friday 08 October

Juve wait on Trez verdict

Planet Football

Juventus are still waiting to find out the full extent of David Trezeguet's shoulder injury. The Frenchman picked up the shoulder knock in last weekend's win over Udinese.

Trezeguet underwent scans on the problem on Wednesday and the club will wait a few days before deciding whether or not to send him under the knife.

The former Monaco ace has been troubled with the shoulder problem for the last year and if he undergoes an operation he could be out of action for as long as four months.

Juve hope Trezeguet will not require surgery and club doctor Riccardo Agricola admitted the club have yet to take a decision on their course of action for the player.

"We have decided nothing. Trezeguet will undergo physiotherapy for the moment and then we will evaluate," said Agricola.

Juventus open contract talks with Iuliano

Tribal Football

Juventus are locked in contract talks with defender Mark Iuliano. Iuliano's current deal expires in the summer and Juve are prepared to sell him in January if he refuses to pen a new deal before Christmas.

The veteran stopper has expressed an ambition to play in England and has been linked with Fulham and Tottenham. However, Juve may use the defender as a makeweight in an offer for Real Madrid centre-forward Fernando Morientes.

Mutu ponders loan option

Football Italia

Juventus have been alerted to the news that Adrian Mutu could consider a January loan move. The Romanian striker is at odds with Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho and he's been linked with a transfer away from London.

His agent has today confirmed that the player wants to remain at Stamford Bridge but failed to rule out a loan switch in the New Year.

"Adrian has an excellent contract with Chelsea and he will decide his future," Giovanni Becali is quoted as saying by news agency Ansa. "However, if there is an option to go somewhere else for six months, with an identical salary, then Adrian would consider it."

The Bianconeri could be keen as they came very close to signing the former Parma star in the summer. They could renew their interest in the attacker if David Trezeguet has shoulder surgery that would sideline him for fourth months.

Mutu was tipped for a great future after his sensational campaign at Parma two years ago when he partnered Adriano in attack. A £15m move to Chelsea followed in the summer of 2003, but the former Inter man has struggled despite a stunning start to his Premiership stint.

Mutu: Price-tags dictate Chelsea selection policy

Tribal Football

Adrian Mutu says he is being overlooked by Chelsea because other players arrived at the club with far higher price-tags. Mutu is convinced that boss Jose Mourinho had dropped him from the Chelsea side in order to accommodate his own summer signings, including the £24m club-record acquisition Didier Drogba.

"Those players are fielded in order to show that the investment was profitable," Mutu said. "I was a victim of this."

Chelsea's Mutu prefers Atletico Madrid over Juventus

Tribal Football

Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu is keen on a move to Atletico Madrid. This week's row with Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho through the press is expected to see Mutu's name circulated to interested club's before the January market.

Atletico, Juventus and Shakhtar Donetsk have all made contact with Mutu's agent in recent days to register their interest. Mutu is understood to favour Atletico, as he fears he could be frozen out at Juve in a similar fashion to what he has experienced at Stamford Bridge.

Marek sick of Juve talk

Planet Football

Marek Jankulovski has insisted he is bored of talk that a deal with Juventus is already done, but did admit that the right bid would see him leave Udinese in January.

Jankulovski has been outstanding in Serie A, and his form has brought persistent speculation of a move to Turin giants Juve. Udinese agreed a fee with CSKA Moscow in the summer, but the player refused to go and was angry that a smaller bid from Juve was rejected.

"I really don't want to say anything more about it," said Jankulovski. "I'm still at Udinese so all this speculation is lies. We are agreed with Udinese that if there will be any advantageous offer for me and then I will go."

Jankulovski is set to sign a new deal - but it is not out of loyalty.

"My value is going down, so the management want me to extend it," added Jankulovski. "I understand this, so they appreciate that I need improved terms."

Fenerbahce's Van Hooijdonk linked with Juventus

Tribal Football

Fenerbahce striker Pierre van Hooijdonk has been linked with Juventus. The big Dutchman is being considered by Juve director general Luciano Moggi as a replacement for David Trezeguet, who has been ruled out for four months with a shoulder injury.

Palermo centre-forward Luca Toni is also under consideration. In the Italian's favour is that he is not Cup-tied from European competition.

Juventus approach Real Madrid for Morientes

Tribal Football

Juventus have approached Real Madrid about the availability of striker Fernando Morientes. Morientes is being lined up by Juve management as a replacement for the crocked David Trezeguet, who has been ruled out for four months with a shoulder injury.

A swap deal has been mooted, with Real desperate for a new centre-half. Igor Tudor and Mark Iuliano are among names to have been tentatively offered to Real in exchange for Morientes.

Juve coach Fabio Capello has been a long-term admirer of Morientes. While in charge of Real Madrid, he tried to sign the striker while Morientes was with Real Zaragoza. He also asked Real for Morientes last year while coach of AS Roma.

Ibrahimovic: Don't mention Juve

Planet Football

Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has banned the media from asking questions about his new life at Juventus.

The 23-year-old - who has already banned questions on his private life after the appearance of a number of lurid stories - refused to answer questions at a press conference called as Sweden prepare for their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Hungary.

When asked whether he thought Italian defenders were any harder to pass than Dutch defenders, Ibrahimovic - a summer signing from Ajax - said: "I only answer questions about the national team.

"Right now I'm with the national team and that has nothing to do with Juventus. I'm sorry to disappoint you but that's how it is."

Seconds later when posed with another Juventus-related question, Ibrahimovic stood firm: "I don't answer questions about Juventus. I'm sorry."

Moments later Ibrahimovic left the press conference and returned to his hotel room, leaving a bemused Henrik Larsson - who seemed happy to answer questions about his new club Barcelona - to face the Swedish media.

Sweden coach Lars Lagerback was sympathetic: "I think Zlatan has good reasons for focusing on the national team. No matter what Zlatan says it's angled and he has been subjected to different kinds of news stories."

Cassano told to quit Roma

Football Italia

Juventus' Gianluca Zambrotta has told Antonio Cassano to leave Roma for the good of his career. The 22-year-old continues to have problems in the Eternal City and speculation suggests that a summer move may occur.

"I think the best thing for Cassano would be to leave," said Zambrotta. "Roma don't seem to be the ideal club for him."

Cassano has a reputation for losing his cool and his numerous tantrums have arguably affected his career.

He was frozen out of the Under-21 set-up in the past after falling out with boss Claudio Gentile. He then had numerous verbal bust-ups with Fabio Capello even if the latter did get him to perform at the highest levels last term.

However, the new season has seen the old Cassano return. He clashed with boss Rudi Voller twice in the space of his 26-day employment. The striker was then jeered by the Roma fans on Sunday when he was visibly unimpressed with Gigi Del Neri's decision to substitute him in the 3-3 draw with Inter.

Cassano was back in training with the Giallorossi on Wednesday after recovering from a fever. Reports suggest he held lengthy talks with Del Neri about that incident but also regarding a possible change of position.

De Rossi unsure of future

Football Italia

Rising star Daniele De Rossi has failed to commit his long-term future to home-town club Roma. The midfielder is only tied to the Giallorossi until 2006 – on a salary of just £30,000 a season – and talks over a new deal are still going on.

"My contract? I made a mistake about talking about it publicly in the past so I won't do that now," he stated. "All that I will say is that anything can happen in football. I hope to stay at Roma but I don't know what will happen in the future."

De Rossi is one of Italian football's brightest prospects after a stunning past 12 months in the peninsula. He is only 21-years-old, but he is already a regular feature in the Roma team and the full Italian national side.

Although some of Europe's biggest clubs are all monitoring his situation, the capital club will always remain his first love.

"I instinctively kissed the Roma badge on Saturday after I scored the equaliser against Inter," he added. "Although I can't guarantee that will be the only shirt I will wear, it will be the only one that I will ever kiss."

Vieri in Real swap?

Football Italia

Inter and Real Madrid are reportedly considering a sensational swap deal involving Christian Vieri and Roberto Carlos. Both players are unsettled at their respective clubs and a January switch could be on the horizon.

Speculation in Spain suggests that Carlos could soon be playing in Italy again, especially with whispers circulating that Milan are keen. But a return to former club Inter would be much simpler and the Nerazzurri are ready to offer Vieri in exchange.

The striker's career at the San Siro seems to be coming to an end as his partnership with Adriano continues to falter. He could now be tempted to go elsewhere and teaming up with close friend Ronaldo in Spain would be an ideal solution.

However, the transfer – which many are already doubting – will only take place if Real release either Fernando Morientes or Michael Owen in January. Both are struggling to regularly feature with the giants and they wouldn't welcome another forward to the squad.

That is where Juventus could step in as David Trezeguet may be forced to have an operation if his shoulder problems continue. The Turin giants have been heavily linked with Morientes but the England striker may also be of interest to them.

Owen has struggled badly in Spain since his surprise summer move from Premiership side Liverpool and a move to Turin could now beckon.

Mascherano: Barcelona, Depor, Real Madrid have all contacted me

Tribal Football

River Plate midfielder Javier Mascherano has confirmed contact with three of Spain's biggest clubs.

"In addition to Real Madrid, there is interest from Deportivo La Coruna and Barcelona," said Mascherano yesterday. "But for now I am happy at River Plate. I have a European passport that would smooth any move to a club in Europe."

Arsenal to rival Spanish giants for Mascherano

Tribal Football

Arsenal could join the January race for River Plate midfielder Javier Mascherano. Deportivo La Coruna lead Real Madrid and Barcelona in their bid to land the 20 year-old.

The Gunners could turn to Mascherano as a replacement for Edu, who has so far baulked at agreeing terms over a new contract.

Arsenal were said to have been preparing £7.5 million offer for Mascherano in August before Patrick Vieira committed himself to the club.

"I had some conversations (about Arsenal) at some point but that chance depended on if Patrick Vieira was going to leave and that didn't happen so the negotiations ended there," said Mascherano.

Inter Milan confident of beating Chelsea for Kompany

Tribal Football

Inter Milan are continuing talks with Anderlecht over defender Vincent Kompany. Inter supremo Massimo Moratti has sent one of his chief scouts to Santander this weekend to watch Kompany in action for Belgium against Spain.

While Arsenal and Chelsea are also chasing the 18 year-old, Inter are convinced they are close to striking a deal for Kompany which will see him sign in January and be immediately loaned back to Anderlecht for the rest of the season.

Lippi turns to 'islanders' in his new Italy

ESPN Soccernet

Fans of the Italian national team used to worry about the cliques forged around the blocks of players from the four big clubs in Serie A - not any more.

When the Azzurri take the field against Slovenia in their World Cup Group Five match on Saturday their attack will not include strikers from Inter Milan, Juventus or champions AC Milan.

Although AS Roma's Francesco Totti looks likely to play in an advanced midfield role, there is a strong probability that the two forwards will be recruited from teams who were playing in Serie B last season - Sicilian club Palermo and Sardinian's Cagliari.

Palermo striker Luca Toni is favourite to lead the line, the powerfully-built striker scored against Norway in September's victory and is likely to get the nod ahead of Parma's Alberto Gilardino.

Barely heard of a few months ago, Cagliari's Mauro Esposito has a chance to make his debut alongside Toni after impressing so much with three goals in five games this season.

Adding to the 'island contingent', Italy coach Marcello Lippi has also drafted in Palermo defender Cristian Zaccardo.

Unlike his predecessors, Lippi is also willing to show faith in players who have left Serie A to play abroad.

Midfielder Stefano Fiore and strikers Bernardo Corradi and Marco Di Vaio all moved to Spain's Valencia in the close season but have remained part of the Azzurri set-up - a chance that was largely denied to previous exiles such as Gianfranco Zola and Paolo Di Canio.

Esposito is the first Cagliari player to be called into the national side since Franco Selvaggi 23 years ago and despite his lack of top-flight experience, the pacey 25-year-old believes he deserves a chance.

'It is great to know that the coach is keeping a close eye on provincial clubs as well as the big teams,' Esposito said on Thursday.

'It's the right thing to do because the players who can make the difference in a game aren't exclusively found at the big clubs.

'At my age I think I have matured and am ready for this opportunity. I know five Serie A matches aren't a lot but I showed what I could do in Serie B last season,' added Esposito, who often plays wide on the right.

The Naples-born striker played nine Serie A matches in two disappointing seasons with Udinese before returning to Serie B with Pescara, the club where he began his career.

Prior to his move to Udine, he had spent a trial spell with Everton and was then close to joining current Italy team mate and AC Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso at Rangers but says that Pescara blocked the deal.

But it has been at Cagliari where Esposito developed into the player who could now make his mark on the international stage, learning from Zola during last season's promotion campaign.

Esposito said he had been reassured by his vastly-experience partner: 'He has told me to just play as I know how and to be relaxed because I deserve this chance,' he said.

Thursday 07 October

Trez delays surgery

Football Italia

David Trezeguet has decided not to go under the knife to sort out his shoulder problem, while Massimo Maccarone is out for two months.

"We haven't worked out a definite yes or no approach to the idea of surgery," explained Juventus chief medic Riccardo Agricola. "Trezeguet will undergo a course of physiotherapy for now and after that we will evaluate the situation."

The Frenchman had considered surgery as the best possible option for a recurring shoulder injury that he suffered again during the 1-0 win over Udinese.

This course of treatment would rule him out for four months, but it would at least be a permanent solution. The delay also gives Juve enough time to consider alternatives on the transfer market, and Chelsea rebel Adrian Mutu is quickly becoming the favourite for a Turin move in January.

Meanwhile, another Serie A star has gone under the knife today, as Massimo Maccarone required an operation to clean up a meniscus problem in his left knee. Parma medical staff confirmed that the former Boro hitman would be out of action for around two months.

Zebina erases Roma stint

Football Italia

Juventus stopper Jonathan Zebina says he would rather forget about his four years with Roma.

"I was under intense pressure for my entire stay there in a negative and unhealthy environment," said the defender. "I had to cope with certain responsibilities which should never have been put onto my shoulders. It's best to simply forget."

Zebina had some tough times in the capital and was often criticised by the Giallorossi fans for his performances. But the former Cagliari ace looks to have been reborn following a summer switch to Juventus, a move that has seen him win a place in the French squad.

"This call-up is thanks to Juventus and Fabio Capello," he said from the Clairefontaine training base. "It is easier to get noticed in Turin and I'm finally here. It is now my objective to remain in the squad by proving my worth. I have the right attitude, the determination and aggressiveness to do well with the national side."

Zebina has enjoyed a wonderful start to the new season as he has quickly settled into the right-back role for the Old Lady.

Morientes set for Juve?

Football Italia

Juventus are today being linked with a January swoop for Real Madrid ace Fernando Morientes. The Bianconeri have just four strikers in their squad which is not enough given recent events.

Boss Fabio Capello has only two fit attackers at this stage of the season in the form of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marcelo Zalayeta. Alex Del Piero is currently sidelined for the next 10 days, while David Trezeguet could be out for as long as four months if he decides to have surgery on a shoulder problem.

Now reports in the peninsula suggest that transfer guru Luciano Moggi will look to give Capello another offensive option in the New Year.

The director general is apparently interested in taking Morientes, possibly on loan, from Real Madrid. The Spaniard was linked with a Turin switch in the summer but returned to Real after a fine season with Monaco.

Morientes would be a welcome addition for the tactician, who actually asked for his arrival on a number of occasions when he was still in charge of Roma.

Another realistic option for Juventus is to recall Giuseppe Sculli, a former U-21 international, from his loan stint at Brescia.

Lecce ready to sell Ledesma as AC Milan, Juventus wait

Tribal Football

Lecce are ready to sell young midfielder Cristian Ledesma at the end of the season. Juventus coach Fabio Capello has had the 22 year-old Argentine scouted at every Lecce game this season and also followed him while in charge at AS Roma last term.

New Roma coach Gigi del Neri is also convinced by Ledesma's ability and will move for the player in the summer. AC Milan remain favourites for the youngster, who travelled with the club in preseason to the Far East.

Lecce will demand £6 million for Ledesma.

Jankulovski in Udinese talks over new deal

Tribal Football

Marek Jankulovski has opened talks over a new contract with Udinese. The Czech Republic international's current deal expires in 2006 and he had fallen out with management after refusing a £5 million move to CSKA Moscow in August.

But the two parties have returned to the negotiating table and Jankulovski is now ready to sign a new deal to 2008 - on the understanding that Udinese will not stand in his way if Juventus come in for him in January.

Chelsea's Mutu: I'm ready to leave

Tribal Football

Chelsea star Adrian Mutu has gone AWOL after a bust-up with manager Jose Mourinho. The Sun says Mourinho claims the striker is injured and cannot play for Romania this week. But Mutu, 25, insists he is fit and has flown out to face the Czech Republic on Saturday.

Mutu stormed: "I am in an open conflict with Mourinho who forbade me to go to my national team and said I was injured. It is not true - I have been in good condition for five days and he knew that."

Mutu is sure to walk straight into a fine of two weeks' wages - around £120,000 - when he returns next week.

But he added: "I don't care about being fined. I want everyone to know that the national team is the most important thing for me."

Mutu rapped: "I told Mourinho I was fit. He disagreed and showed me a piece of paper from the medical staff claiming I wasn't. But I know I am fit.

"Mourinho has promised me that I would play in the first team for some games. Then I wasn't even in the squad and I don't understand why. Probably the only solution, even if I don't want it, is to find another team."

Real Madrid, Barcelona battle for Mascherano

Tribal Football

River Plate midfielder Javier Mascherano has emerged as a target for bitter rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona.

The Argentina international is a major target for Real as they seek to find a midfield anchor to add steel to their present line-up. Barca are also in for Mascherano after a spate of midfield injuries suffered since the start of the season.

Complicating matters is Deportivo La Coruna, which is believed to have struck a preliminary agreement with River for the 21 year-old ahead of the January market.

AC Milan stunned at Chelsea bid for Atletico Madrid's Torres

Tribal Football

AC Milan are ready to drop their interest in Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres. Secretly, Milan chiefs are stunned at Atletico's decision to reject Chelsea's mega £25 million-plus- Adrian Mutu offer this week.

Milan won't go higher than Chelsea's bid and instead are ready to step up their interest for Parma striker Alberto Gilardino. The two clubs have a strong relationship through Parma director Arrigo Sacchi and are confident a deal can be struck for a fraction of Torres' price-tag.

Lippi defends snubbed Totti

Football Italia

Marcello Lippi insists Francesco Totti can still earn the respect of Europe as Italy test out the squad set to face Slovenia. The Roma captain was in the news this week for his 100th Serie A goal and his omission from FIFA's World Player of the Year shortlist.

"Totti would have had to forget what happened in Euro 2004 even if he had won the trophy," insisted Lippi when asked if the notorious spitting incident had ruled him out of contention.

"He is a player in this new Italy squad and has great enthusiasm, but he does not deserve such scant international recognition. I don't want to cause controversy, but I get the feeling that in Europe there is an unjustified antipathy towards Totti for what happened in Portugal."

Totti is back in the swing of things for his first Italy session with new Coach Lippi, scoring one goal and providing an assist for Toni in today's 5-2 win over the Under-18 squad.

"Francesco's style is unmistakeable," smiled the ex-Juve boss. "He played well in the position I think he is best in, and that is just behind the centre-forward. He is given the freedom to come back for the ball or push forward in that role."

Lippi surprisingly left Alessandro Nesta, Gennaro Gattuso and Gianluca Zambrotta out of this friendly test with the Under-18 squad, but the trio will face Slovenia.

"I wanted to rest those three because they're the ones who had perhaps played the most games recently," explained the Coach. "I don't want to outline my starting eleven now, as everyone has to feel geared up for Saturday, but I can say that the first half side with a few variations is closer to my plans."

New boy Mauro Esposito of Cagliari missed two good scoring opportunities and appeared to be a little star-struck in his first Azzurri experience.

"I encouraged him before this friendly test, but he might have struggled with the emotional impact of this mini-debut."

The relatively new boy who did impress was Daniele De Rossi, who rattled the crossbar and is fast becoming a key member of the senior Italy midfield.

"De Rossi has great qualities," noted Lippi, "and is definitely above the norm. He knows how to start a move and can break through defences to finish it, so giving him a shot was not dictated by circumstances."

Tactics have been a big part of the build-up to Saturday's World Cup qualifier with Slovenia, but the Coach pours cold water on the press speculation.

"There are three systems that are more or less the same thing with ever so slight adjustments, and those are the 4-4-2, 4-4-1-1 and the 4-2-3-1. More than tactics I'm concentrating on seeing an Italy side with the same spirit as a month ago, when we won our first two qualifiers."

The Azzurri beat the Under-18 outfit with a 5-2 scoreline over two 50-minute halves of football. The goals were scored by Luca Toni, Francesco Totti, Marco Di Vaio, Simone Perrotta and Gianluca Zambrotta.

Perrotta recovered in record time from a bruised knee to play in this test match and even scored a goal. Marco Di Vaio moved out wide on the left for the second half, which resembled more of a classic 4-4-2 set-up.

Italy 5-2 Italy Under-18

First half: Buffon; Bonera, Materazzi, Cannavaro, Pancaro; Camoranesi, De Rossi, Blasi; Esposito, Totti, Toni

Scorers: Toni 14, Totti 26, Acquafresca (U18) 28

Second half: Pelizzoli; Oddo (Zambrotta 26), Materazzi, Zaccardo, Pancaro; Diana, Perrotta, Fiore, Di Vaio; Gilardino, Corradi

Scorers: Di Vaio 19, Momente (U18) 32, Perrotta 35, Zambrotta 43

Lippi Wants Italy To Be Like Juve – Zambrotta

Goal.com

Gianluca Zambrotta has become one of Italy's most consistent players over the past years and his performances are always above par. The Juventus winger turned full-back spoke on Wednesday about Lippi's Italy and the similarities with his club team.

"Lippi considers the national team like a club; he wants to re-use the Juventus model here as well. I think all of this is good."

The bianconeri are the team with most players (five) in the Italian national team for the two upcoming World Cup Qualifying matches.

Ranking boost for Italy

Football Italia

Marcello Lippi's Azzurri side have moved up one place in the latest FIFA World Rankings. Italy are now in joint eighth position with Portugal after last month's victories over Norway and Moldova. Brazil remain first ahead of France, but Argentina have replaced Spain in third place.

Top 10

Brazil (1) 845 points
France (2) 788
Argentina (4) 778
Spain (3) 774
Holland (6) 755
Czech Rep (5) 751
England (7) 739
Portugal (11) 735
Italy (9) 735
Mexico (8) 734

Italy ponder 2012 bid

Football Italia

The Italian Football Federation is considering making a bid to host the 2012 European Championships. Italy have until 2006 to table an offer but that will only take place if the FIGC receives substantial government backing.

"In order to host Euro 2012, we would need eight cities with facilities such as airports, hotels, motorways and railways which are in good condition," stated FIGC chief Franco Carraro. "We will also need arenas which are capable of giving high standards of comfort to the spectators. Even our best stadiums would need renovation.

"We will open negotiations with the government because if they do not have the will, the candidacy will be useless."

Italy have already hosted the tournament on two occasions in the past after the events of 1968 and 1980. The 1990 World Cup was also staged in Italy.

Wednesday 06 October

Buffon delays Totti retirement

Football Italia

Gianluigi Buffon has told Francesco Totti to forget about retiring until he leads the Azzurri to glory. The Roman hinted last week that he could hang up his international boots after the 2006 World Cup Finals. But the Juventus star has warned his Italian colleague that the rest of the side need his quality.

"Before Totti leaves the national side, he needs to help us win something," said the goalkeeper. "I know his qualities and he is a player who can make the difference for a team on the international stage."

Totti should play for Italy in next week's qualifiers against Slovenia and Belarus - for the first time since the spitting incident at Euro 2004 that nearly saw him quit the Azzurri.

"Francesco couldn't leave the national side just because of that," continued Buffon. "If he really considered retiring at that point then he made a mistake. I'm honoured to wear this blue jersey and I intend to keep on wearing it for as long as possible."

Meanwhile, boss Marcello Lippi has handed in his 50-man World Cup squad to FIFA - a list that can be continuously updated seven days before each qualifying game. All the usual suspects are there even if Chievo's Franco Semioli and Messina left-back Alessandro Parisi are also included.

Goalkeepers: Abbiati (Milan), Buffon (Juventus), Pelizzoli (Roma), Peruzzi (Lazio), Roma (Monaco).

Defenders: Barzagli (Palermo), Bonera (Parma), Birindelli (Juventus), F.Cannavaro (Juventus), Favalli (Inter), Ferrari (Roma), Legrottaglie (Juventus), Materazzi (Inter), Nesta (Milan), Oddo (Lazio), Pancaro (Milan), Parisi (Messina), Zaccardo (Palermo), Zambrotta (Juventus), Zauri (Lazio)

Midfielders: Ambrosini (Milan), Barone (Parma), Blasi (Juventus), Camoranesi (Juventus), Diana (Sampdoria), De Rossi (Roma), Esposito (Cagliari), Fiore (Valencia), Gattuso (Milan), Marchionni (Parma), Perrotta (Roma), Pinzi (Udinese), Pirlo (Milan), Semioli (Chievo), Tacchinardi (Juventus), Volpi (Sampdoria), C.Zanetti (Inter)

Forwards: Bazzani (Sampdoria), Cassano (Roma), Corradi (Valencia), Del Piero (Juventus), Di Vaio (Valencia), Flachi (Sampdoria), Gilardino (Parma), F.Inzaghi (Milan), Miccoli (Fiorentina), Montella (Roma), Toni (Palermo), Totti (Roma), Vieri (Inter)

Buffon Invites Everyone To Calm Down

Goal.com

Referee mistakes have been at the order of the day in Serie A, however Gigi Buffon has invited everyone to calm down and not look too much into these errors.

"There have been referee mistakes, but let's all calm down," stated Buffon. "We're still in October: if we don't relax now, we shall end up becoming crazy in June."

The number one Juventus and Italian goalkeeper defended the Italian referees as he said that in other leagues the mistakes are even worse.

"Surely the referees are making mistakes but following also International leagues I must say that I saw many terrible mistakes. I agree with what Palermo's President Zamparini said: we cannot focus on just one episode, we cannot make a controversy for a penalty not awarded or given against.

"It's much worse when a series of small episodes end up influencing a game. However I repeat; let's all calm down."

Trezeguet To Decide On Wednesday Regarding Operation

Goal.com

David Trezeguet is expected to decide whether or not to be operated to his shoulder on Wednesday. The French striker will consult Juve's medical staff tomorrow and a decision will be taken accordingly.

Trezeguet had been having problems with his shoulder for quite some time now, however he aggravated the injury last Sunday during Udinese-Juventus.

Inter exit hurt Cannavaro

Football Italia

Fabio Cannavaro has blasted Inter's decision to sell him to Serie A rivals Juventus this summer.

"Inter simply dumped me," he said from Italy's training base on Tuesday. "They nursed me back to full fitness and then unloaded me."

The international stopper joined the Turin giants, in a straight swap deal with goalkeeper Fabian Carini, after two difficult years at the San Siro. But the former Parma ace admits that he was ready to remain and deliver the outstanding performances that he is currently doing with the Old Lady.

"I said that I wouldn't leave Inter until I proved who I was and I still stand by that today. But they no longer had any faith in me," he continued. "There were just three days left before the transfer window closed when they came to me and said they'd sold me to Juventus.

"I therefore signed a four-year deal with the Bianconeri and I now hope to end my career in Turin."

The Nerazzurri sacrificed Cannavaro to get him off their wage bill, a decision that could cost them dearly.

"Inter unloaded me for financial reasons but they got rid of a player who has now totally recovered physically," added the 29-year-old. "I made the right decision in moving and I think that I have proved to them already that they were mistaken in selling me."

The Napoli-born player then highlighted Inter's lack of patience as one of their major weaknesses.

"Too many changes take place in Milan," he noted. "I was there for two years and I saw three Coaches and a lot of players pass through. This is the reason why the club lacks success."

Juventus return to Chelsea for Mutu

Tribal Football

Juventus are expected to push for a deal with Chelsea over Adrian Mutu in the coming weeks. The Romania international won't leave Stamford Bridge until January, but Juve hope to take advantage of the international break to seal a deal for the striker.

David Trezeguet's shoulder injury has forced Juve to return to Chelsea for Mutu, who almost moved to Turin in August only for Blues owner Roman Abramovich to block the deal.

Juventus scouting Lecce's Ledesma

Tribal Football

Juventus have been scouting Lecce midfielder Cristian Ledesma. The Argentine has been scouted at every game this season by Juve, which are considering the youngster for next season.

But Juve will face competition for Ledesma when he becomes available at little Lecce, with both Inter Milan and AS Roma also following his progress this season.

Di Vaio happy in Spain

Football Italia

Marco Di Vaio has no regrets about leaving Juventus despite their scintillating start to the season. The Italian joined Valencia in the summer but he says he's happy with life outside of Serie A.

"I'm not missing Italian football right now even if I do still keep a close eye on what is happening," said the striker. So what are his initial thoughts on the new championship?

"I'm surprised by how Inter have started because I thought they would have done better," he added. "Juventus? I'm not amazed at all about the compactness which they are already showing."

Di Vaio, who has been included in the latest Italy squad, left the Turin giants after failing to break into the first team. But he has nothing but praise for the Bianconeri with the way they dealt with his situation after Euro 2004.

"I could never speak badly of Juventus," he explained. "It was totally my decision to leave Turin and they certainly didn't force me out. The club didn't stand in my way at all because they happily accepted my desire to go somewhere else."

The Old Lady netted £8m for the former Parma ace who never really settled at the Stadio Delle Alpi.

Clubs queue for Cassano

Football Italia

Europe's biggest clubs are monitoring the Antonio Cassano situation at Roma after contract talks allegedly stalled. The youngster is only tied to the club until June 2006 but the Giallorossi are keen to extend that agreement.

However, speculation in the peninsula on Tuesday suggests that an initial meeting didn't go as well as hoped. Cassano is willing to remain in Rome but he allegedly wants his current salary doubled in return.

The two parties are now believed to have set up another meeting in January to continue negotiations. If the former Bari youngster doesn't reach an agreement before the end of the season then he will be sold in the summer.

That has alerted the likes of Milan, Inter, Juventus, Real Madrid and Chelsea who have all been linked with the starlet.

Roma are set for some tough months ahead as they must also renegotiate terms with Francesco Totti over a new deal. He is also tied to the Olimpico outfit until 2006 and has been strongly linked with a move to Real Madrid or Milan.

If Roma can't afford to keep both men then they are set to sacrifice Cassano rather than fan favourite Totti.

Roma contract talks with Cassano begin badly

Tribal Football

Contract talks between AS Roma and striker Antonio Cassano have begun badly. Cassano's current deal expires in 2006 and his agent has already had an opening round of negotiations.

Those close to talks say Cassano has demanded double his current salary, which was turned down flat by Roma officials. A new meeting is scheduled for January.

However, in the meantime Cassano's lawyer, Giuseppe Bozzo, has been in contact with several clubs about his client - including Real Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan, Inter and Chelsea.

Its understood Cassano will make his final decision on staying at how he gets along with new Roma coach Gigi del Neri over the next three months.

Parisi in Valencia link

Football Italia

Messina full-back Alessandro Parisi says he knows nothing of a Valencia bid for his services. The left-back is one of the most wanted players in Italy right now and reports suggest the Spaniards have made a £5.4m offer for his January signature.

"I don't know anything about these stories," said the 27-year-old. "And until I receive a concrete offer, I'm not interested. I just want to enjoy this magical moment which Messina are in and continue to score goals for my club."

Valencia see him as an ideal player to replace the ageing Amedeo Carboni, even if they also signed young left-back Emiliano Moretti from Parma in August.

Parisi caught the eye of many teams during the summer after he netted an amazing 14 goals in Messina's promotion campaign. Juventus, Palermo, Milan, Lazio, Inter and even Manchester United were all linked with the Sicilian.

Parisi has started the new term in fine fashion and even netted a beauty at the weekend in the 4-1 win over Siena. That led to suggestions that he could be handed international recognition after being watched by Azzurri scout Gianni Bui. However, the call didn't arrive this time.

"It would have been great to have been picked but I'm very calm about the future," he added. "I just prefer to think about the goal I scored and our incredible second place in the Italian championship right now."

Meghni goes under the knife

Football Italia

Bologna's rising star Mourad Meghni will be out of action for up to a month, while Roma check up on Antonio Cassano.

The teenager has gone under the knife to correct a meniscus ligament problem in his left knee, confirmed the French Under-21 side. The injury was discovered after Sunday's 1-0 defeat away to Palermo and he had been called up for European Championship qualifiers against the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus.

It's a tough blow for Bologna, who were beginning to see the youngster as a key figure in their set-up. Franco-Algerian midfielder Meghni hit the headlines this season with a brace in the 3-1 victory over Roma and has been likened to a "little Zinedine Zidane" in his homeland.

Meanwhile, Roma have denied reports that they are checking up on Antonio Cassano after he missed today's training session.

"I was surprised by the publicity that was given to my house visit," said club doctor Mario Brozzi after he went to the players' home. "This is a perfectly normal routine that I always stick to for our squad members."

The fiery Giallorossi star did not attend training this morning due to the recurrence of a flu virus that had also caused problems last week.

"It is a normal flu," added Doctor Brozzi, "and Cassano is already feeling a bit better. I expect that tomorrow he will be able to train with the others."

Atletico Madrid reject mega Torres offer from Chelsea

Tribal Football

Chelsea have made a mega offer of £24 million plus Adrian Mutu for Atletico Madrid captain Fernando Torres. AS says the bid was given short shrift by Atletico chiefs, with the reply: "The boy is not for sale".

Atletico are interested in Mutu, but as a strike-partner for Torres, not his replacement. It is the second time this season they have rejected a major bid from Chelsea for their marquee player. Manchester United also had a bid of £26 million plus Diego Forlan turned down by Atletico over the summer.

Despite the impressive form of Eidur Gudjohnsen this season, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich sees Torres as the long-term partner of exciting forward Didier Drogba and is expected to try again before the January market opens.

Chelsea target Robinho happy at Santos

Tribal Football

Santos ace Robinho says he is in no hurry to leave the Brazilian club. Chelsea are chasing the youngster, who has been likened to Pele, but he said: "There have been offers but none has been good enough for me and for Santos."

The 20 year-old also told Estado News, "My dream is to play in Europe like anyone else. I want to show my playing ability to the Europeans and be successful there like I am here but I'm not in a hurry to leave Santos.

"This is my home, I feel happy here, I'm well-paid, Santos pay on time, I play in a good team and I have an excellent coach (Vanderlei Luxemburgo)."

Perrotta doubt for Lippi

Football Italia

Simone Perrotta could be forced into an early exit from the Italy squad with injury, while we look at the side likely to face Slovenia.

Roma midfielder Perrotta has not taken part in full training since meeting up with the rest of the Azzurri on Monday morning due to a knock. He suffered heavy bruising to his left leg during the closing stages of the 3-3 draw with Inter and medical staff could decide to send him home.

This frees up a place in midfield that could be taken by his Giallorossi teammate Daniele De Rossi. The Under-21 international already impressed in his senior debut and scored in Sunday's Serie A match.

He should be partnered by Milan's Gennaro Gattuso, but there are three other tactical decisions that need to be made by Marcello Lippi.

Reports from the training ground suggest that Massimo Oddo and Daniele Bonera are battling for the right-back slot, while Valencia colleagues Marco Di Vaio and Stefano Fiore are contenders for a wide midfield role in a 4-2-3-1 system.

In the absence of Christian Vieri, the choice of centre-forward is up in the air between Alberto Gilardino, Bernardo Corradi and Luca Toni. The fact the Palermo striker is still recovering from a minor thigh problem could push Corradi ahead.

Meanwhile, Toni is also in the news with newspaper talk of a potential move to Roma.

"To hear that a great side like Roma is interested in me can only make me happy," stated the ex-Brescia man. "To play for any big club, including the Giallorossi, is the dream of any player."

We should have a clearer picture of the squad Lippi plans to field against Slovenia when Italy play their traditional friendly match against the Under-18 squad on Wednesday afternoon.

Italy mull over 2012 bid

Planet Football

Italy are weighing up a bid to host the European Championship in 2012. Italian football federation president Franco Carraro admits that the country would need to undertake a major revamp of some its historic venues, but is hoping for government backing.

"To host Euro 2012, we would need eight cities with facilities like airports, hotels, motorways and railways in good condition," said Carraro. "More than that, we would need stadia capable of giving high comfort standard to the audience.

"Stadio Olimpico is obsolete and the San Siro too. Even our best stadia would need renovation. We will open contact with the government because if they do not have the will, the candidacy will be useless."

Italy have until 2006 to make up their mind on putting themselves forward. The country has extensive experience of the tournament, having hosted it in 1968 and 1980.

Adriano up for FIFA Award

Football Italia

Three Italians and a selection of stars that includes Adriano, Pavel Nedved and Andriy Shevchenko are short-listed for FIFA's World Player of the Year award.

The 35-player list was announced ahead of the final group of three that will be whittled down in November, but Serie A has a good representation this year. There are three Azzurri in the group, Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and Milan duo Alessandro Nesta and Paolo Maldini.

Once again, no doubt hindered by his brief and all too dramatic Euro 2004 experience, Francesco Totti is left out.

Milan have five of their players included and are the second most represented club in the short-list behind Real Madrid's seven. The Rossoneri can get behind their two defenders plus Marcos Cafu, Kaka and Ukrainian hitman Andriy Shevchenko.

Juventus have perhaps the best chance of taking the trophy back to Italy with 2003 Balon d'Or winner Pavel Nedved and summer signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Sweden.

Inter are also in with a shout thanks to Adriano, the striker whose profile has shot up over the last few months thanks to his top scorer status in Brazil's Copa America triumph and his impact on the Champions' League.

Bologna have a player to cheer on, as Theodoros Zagorakis is included for his part in Greece's Euro 2004 victory. Curiously, he is the only representative of his country after winning a major football tournament.

FIFA Short-List:

Adriano (Brazil/Inter)
Roberto Ayala (Argentina)
Michael Ballack (Germany)
Milan Baros (Czech Rep)
David Beckham (England)
Gianluigi Buffon (Italy/Juventus)
Cafu (Brazil/Milan)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Deco (Portugal)
Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast)
Samuel Eto'o (Cameroon)
Luis Figo (Portugal)
Steven Gerrard (England)
Ryan Giggs (Wales)
Thierry Henry (France)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden/Juventus)
Oliver Kahn (Germany)
Kaka (Brazil/Milan)
Frank Lampard (England)
Henrik Larsson (Sweden)
Roy Makaay (Holland)
Paolo Maldini (Italy/Milan)
Pavel Nedved (Czech Rep/Juventus)
Alessandro Nesta (Italy/Milan)
Michael Owen (England)
Robert Pires (France)
Raul (Spain)
Roberto Carlos (Brazil)
Ronaldinho (Brazil)
Ronaldo (Brazil)
Wayne Rooney (England)
Andriy Shevchenko (Ukraine/Milan)
Ruud van Nistelrooy (Holland)
Theodoros Zagorakis (Greece/Bologna)
Zinedine Zidane (France)

Tuesday 05 October

Capello hails compact Juve

Football Italia

Juventus boss Fabio Capello is understandably happy with his side's start to the new campaign.

"I'm very satisfied with the situation right now," he told Radio Anch'Io Sport. "I particularly like the character, compactness and the determination which the side is demonstrating."

The Bianconeri maintained their Serie A leadership on Sunday with a 1-0 win at Udinese, in a game where they again excelled defensively. They conceded 42 League goals last term but have been beaten on just one occasion so far under Capello.

"Our defence is very strong but our game is not based on it," highlighted the former Milan tactician. "We are simply playing in a concealed way but all of my teams have always scored a lot of goals."

The summer capture of Fabio Cannavaro is seen as one of the main reasons why the Turin giants are so difficult to score against.

"We considered him to be one of the best centre backs in Italy and that is why we signed him," continued Capello. "He has instantly shown his worth by being recalled to the national side. But it is important that we don't forget elements such as Lilian Thuram and Jonathan Zebina.

"The midfield is also working well and is proving to be an excellent filter which also supports our attackers."

However, problems could lie ahead after David Trezeguet joined Alex Del Piero on the treatment table.

"We are convinced that Alex can resolve his injury problems in the next 15 days," noted the Coach. "He, like David Trezeguet, is an important player and we just hope they get over their fitness issues.

"Alex just needs to get in good shape again and show courage to become the player we all know. This two-week break will work well. Fortunately we have players who are good enough to replace them such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Marcelo Zalayeta and even Olivier Kapo."

Capello was also asked to comment on Roma's Antonio Cassano, after the player didn't agree with the decision to substitute him against Inter last night.

"There is a strong bond between us," explained Capello. "I've tried a number of things in the past but I think things are improving. Sometimes I used a stick and others a carrot, like a father treats a son.

"He needs help because he is a great talent. The people who jeered him at the Stadio Olimpico last night should think again."

Cassano, dropped from the Italy set-up, has had a tough start to the season and the fans seem tired of his attitude. So could the youngster be set for a summer exit? "He'll decide what to do and where to go," concluded Capello.

Juventus chief defends Ibrahimovic after Cribari bust-up

Tribal Football

Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has defended star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic after television replays caught him in a scrap with Udinese defender Cribari on Sunday. The replays appeared to show the Swede headbutting Cribari and the incident will be investigated by Italian football chiefs.

"Are we using the television to referee the game?" asked Moggi. "The referee was very close and saw the incident. He did not punish anyone. There's nothing to answer. Ibrahimovic is a very honest player."

Juve can ill afford to lose Ibrahimovic to suspension with David Trezeguet and Alessandro del Piero also missing through injury.

Zalayeta keen to contribute

Football Italia

Marcelo Zalayeta says he wasn't surprised to have scored Juventus' winner at Udinese on Sunday. The Uruguayan came on at half-time to net the only goal of the game to keep his club at the top of the table.

"I may get few opportunities to play but I always look to get on the scoresheet. When I get a chance I just aim to help the team as best I can," he stated.

The South American was needed by the Bianconeri after David Trezeguet picked up another shoulder injury. He proved to be a menace for the Udinese defence and headed home a deserved winner on the hour mark.

"All the matters after the 90 minutes is that we won the game," he continued. "We work hard in training all week and the players here are aware of how good we are."

Zalayeta is only the fourth choice striker in Turin but may see more action soon given that Trezeguet and Alex Del Piero are experiencing fitness problems.

"I know that I have players like Trezeguet, Ibrahimovic and Del Piero ahead of me but it is my job to just be ready when the Coach requires me," concluded the 25-year-old.

Meanwhile, Francesco Totti grabbed a crucial goal himself last night against Inter - his 100th in Serie A. The captain slotted home a wonderful free-kick, 10 years after opening his Roma account in the 1-1 draw with Foggia on 4 September 1994.

Capello: Roma's Cassano like a son

Tribal Football

Juventus coach Fabio Capello says he regards AS Roma striker Antonio Cassano "like a son". Capello also admitted he'd like to bring the Italian international to Turin after reacting to claims that he poorly managed Cassano while he was in charge of Roma.

"They (Roma) have criticised me, claiming I managed Cassano poorly," said Capello yesterday. "Well, what I see and what they see are two different things. I feel close to Antonio and at times the relationship was like a father has with a son. He is an unequalled one, a symbol of Italian football."

Capello added: "If he decided to leave Roma, there would be many teams interested in him, including Juve."

Juventus offer Kapo, Iuliano for Udinese's Jankulovski

Tribal Football

Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has made a new offer to Udinese for midfielder Marek Jankulovski. Moggi held talks with Udinese officials on Saturday and offered a deal of Olivier Kapo, Mark Iuliano, plus a cash component, in exchange for Jankulovski.

Udinese are considering the proposal, which will also include Jankulovski returning to the club on-loan for the rest of season if the deal is struck in January.

Bojinov has Juve dream

Football Italia

Lecce young gun Valeri Bojinov has revealed that he would like Juventus to be his next club.

The 18-year-old has made a stunning start to the season and a summer move seems likely for the striker. Both Milan clubs, Barcelona and Arsenal have been linked with £14m bids but the Turin giants could win the likely auction.

"I would like to play for Juventus because they are a massive club," said the Giallorossi superstar. "They are a real team who never get bored of winning and that is a characteristic that they share with me."

Bojinov joined the Via Del Mare outfit at the age of 12 and is now living up to his potential under attacking tactician Zdenek Zeman. The Bulgarian has scored four goals so far this term and is unsurprisingly in his national side's plans.

He's been selected for next week's World Cup qualifiers but may not feature as he has a slight muscle problem.

Bojinov favours Juventus over Arsenal

Tribal Football

Lecce striker Valeri Bojinov says he welcomes the interest of Juventus. Juve, AC Milan and Arsenal are all chasing the Bulgaria international, who declared: "It appeals to me that Juve are interested in me.

"They're a healthy club and beyond that, they have players who never stop learning and are ambitious - like me."

Arsenal are lining up Bojinov as an alternative to Valencia's Miguel Angulo, who pulled out of a move to Highbury in August.

Juventus to recall Sculli, Palladino

Tribal Football

Juventus are set to recall a loan striker after David Trezeguet suffered a major shoulder injury on Sunday against Udinese. The French ace could be missing for four months, leading Juve director general Luciano Moggi to consider ending the loan of one of two of his young strikers.

Giuseppe Sculli, currently on-loan at Brescia, and Raffaele Palladino, who is with Serie B Salernitana, top Moggi's list.

New faces for Lazio?

Football Italia

The January transfer window could see Christian Brocchi and Nicola Legrottaglie join Lazio. Reports in Italy today suggest that the Milan and Juventus men could arrive in search of first team football.

Brocchi was strongly associated with a capital switch in the summer but the champions refused to release him. However, the midfielder is unhappy at the lack of action he has seen so far this season and he is eyeing an exit.

Legrottaglie is also being associated with the Biancocelesti as his difficulties at the Stadio Delle Alpi continue. The Italian international arrived at the start of last season but he struggled to settle with the giants.

He's now been relegated to the bench, after Lilian Thuram was moved into the centre of defence and the summer arrival of Fabio Cannavaro. Whispers suggest that the former Chievo star could join the Olimpico outfit on loan in the New Year.

Lazio approach Juventus for Legrottaglie

Tribal Football

Lazio president Claudio Lotito has made an enquiry after Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie. The centre-half has dropped off the first team radar at Juve since the summer arrival of new coach Fabio Capello. Lazio are keen to take Legrottaglie to Rome and Juve are open to negotiating a loan deal in January.

Lippi trusts in Totti

Football Italia

Marcello Lippi is expecting Francesco Totti to make a significant contribution to the Italian cause over the next 10 days. The Roman has yet to appear for Lippi's Italy but he looks set to feature in the qualifiers against Slovenia and Belarus.

"I'm happy to have Totti at my disposal and this Totti in particular. He played really well against Inter by illustrating a great amount of determination," stated the Coach. "He's getting back to his best and he put in an important display thanks to some wonderful touches and his stunning goal.

"This is what I expect from this player even if I have said in the past that I don't want to put too much responsibility on any individual."

The No 10 missed the games against Norway and Moldova last month, due to suspension and then injury, but the Azzurri still won without him.

"I want us to continue from where we left off," stated Lippi. "It is my hope to see the players back with the same spirit. I'm convinced that all of the men who I have called up are in excellent form and condition. I don't expect to make massive changes to the side over the two games."

Lippi has made some brave decisions by leaving out the likes of Antonio Cassano, Fabrizio Miccoli and Andrea Pirlo, but he looks set to continue with that trend.

"This is a competition that lasts for two years and therefore you can't really have a first choice team in your head over that amount of time," he explained. "I will just look to take advantage of the players who are in the best form throughout the qualifiers.

"Only once we have qualified and are approaching the actual tournament will I seriously think about a possible regular line-up."

Why Lippi axed Cassano

Football Italia

Marcello Lippi insists that Antonio Cassano is part of Italy's future despite his omission from the latest squad. The Roma youngster has surprisingly been ignored for the qualifiers against Slovenia and Belarus but the tactician maintains he will be back.

"Antonio will be called up so many times in the future that he'll get bored of it," the Coach stated on Monday. "I have not included him this time only because he's not in the best form after starting the season later than everybody else because of injury.

"I am a great admirer of Cassano and I can't wait for him to return because Italy can't do without a player of his talent."

The temperamental 22-year-old has had a difficult start to the season after falling out with former Roma boss Rudi Voller. He was then whistled by the Giallorossi fans last night after he showed his frustration at being replaced by new Coach Gigi Del Neri in the 3-3 with Inter.

But the former Chievo tactician has defended the youngster and tipped him to return to his best.

"I'm saddened that he was jeered by the fans because he is a player who needs stimulating and not criticising," stated Del Neri today. "The Azzurri? Lippi hasn't named him this time but I'm certain that he will do in the future.

"Antonio is a player of great quality and the decision to leave him out on this occasion signifies nothing."

Many expected Cassano to be included in the squad, especially as Alex Del Piero is unavailable due to injury. Yet Lippi decided to ignore him and also Fiorentina's Fabrizio Miccoli who is struggling for form too.

Azzurri call delights duo

Football Italia

Mauro Esposito and Christian Zaccardo have expressed their delight after receiving the Azzurri call.

"My legs trembled when (Cagliari and Italy legend) Gigi Riva phoned me with the news," said the Cagliari forward. "This first call-up is an honour for me, especially as I am here thanks to my performances with the Sardinian club."

Esposito had been tipped for selection after an impressive start to the season and the player has thanked one man in particular.

"Gianfranco Zola has helped me immensely, in Serie B last season but also at the start of this campaign," he added. "Zola's told me to stay calm and do the things that I am good at."

Defender Zaccardo becomes the latest player to graduate from the Under-21 set-up after his fine form at Palermo.

"I dedicate this inclusion to boss Francesco Guidolin, Palermo and the fans," said the summer signing from Bologna. "I did hope to be a part of the national side one day even if I didn't think it would arrive so soon.

"I believe my recent goal at the Stadio Delle Alpi in the 1-1 draw against Juventus really helped me."

Monday 04 October

Udinese 0 - 1 Juventus

Football Italia

Zalayeta runs to celebrate his goal with his provider Camoranesi

Marcelo Zalayeta took Juventus to a crucial away victory that keeps them out in front of the chasing pack. Juve seemed to be an unstoppable juggernaut, but last week's surprise 1-1 home draw with new boys Palermo highlighted some problems.

Alessandro Del Piero has been ruled out for a fortnight with a tendon problem, while Fabio Cannavaro recovered in time to start, so Zlatan Ibrahimovic is now David Trezeguet's regular partner. Stephen Appiah replaced Manuele Blasi in midfield.

Udinese are still fuming from a week of controversy, as refereeing errors characterised both their 2-1 defeat to Brescia and the UEFA Cup exit to Panionios. Marek Jankulovski is suspended following his red card for dissent and David Pizarro pulled out during the warm-up, so Alberto and Stefano Mauri stepped in.

There was a scare for Juve within the first 50 seconds, as a Vincenzo Iaquinta cross was pulled back for Mauri only for him to drag it wide of the near post from less than six yards.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic managed to get past his marker inside the box, but his finishing was not equal to the build-up. Pavel Nedved burst into the box and his shot could only shake the side-netting. The Czech was on fine form and a powerful snapshot from distance almost took Morgan De Sanctis by surprise.

Just as the Bianconeri were putting the pressure on, Iaquinta combined with Mauri and saw his strike deflected over the bar. At the other end Nedved set up Appiah and the Ghana international's screamer stung the palms of ex-Juve goalkeeper De Sanctis.

It was an open game and Iaquinta fired just wide of the near post, but there was controversy just before the break when Emilson Sanchez Cribari fell under what replays suggest was a headbutt from Ibrahimovic. The incident was not seen by the referee or his assistants, so in theory it could go to TV evidence.

The Swede showed the better side of his game soon after when he spun round two defenders, but he was offside at the time. Trezeguet was substituted at half-time after falling heavily on to his shoulder, a problem he has suffered with for the last year, and made way for Marcelo Zalayeta.

Nedved was inspirational and set up Zalayeta at the far post, but De Sanctis was ready for his close-range finish. Jonathan Zebina has only ever scored one goal in his career, but went very close on the hour mark when his stunning left-foot drive thumped the upright with De Sanctis stranded.

The Bianconeri finally broke the deadlock on the hour mark with their substitute, as Zalayeta rose to nod in a Mauro German Camoranesi corner kick.

There was panic in the Juve area soon after, as Iaquinta sprung the offside trap and flicked the ball over Buffon, but Fabio Cannavaro sprinted back for an acrobatic goalline clearance.

There was bad news for Pavel Nedved, who limped off after a particularly crunching tackle from Muntari. Ibrahimovic entertained the fans with a series of flicks and backheel touches, but rarely managed to make them effective against a solid Udinese defence.

Valerio Bertotto was unfortunate enough to charge down Ruben Olivera's strike with his face and was stretchered off. The captain managed to come back on, but evidently the damage was done and he later collapsed without further contact. As Udinese had already completed their substitutions, they were forced to continue in ten men.

Appiah sprung the offside trap only for De Sanctis to stand his ground and close him down at the near post, then Buffon pounced on David Di Michele's cutback before Dino Fava could reach it.

Udinese: De Sanctis; Bertotto, Cribari, Kroldrup; Alberto (Pieri 72), Pinzi, Mauri (Di Michele 62), Muntari, Felipe; Iaquinta (Fava 75), Di Natale

Juventus: Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Appiah, Nedved (Olivera 67); Trezeguet (Zalayeta 46), Ibrahimovic

Ref: Farina

Post-match comments

Fabio Capello: "I am happy with the performance, as we didn't allow Udinese too many chances. We wasted a few too many scoring opportunities of our own, but Morgan De Sanctis was also excellent in goal. Zlatan Ibrahimovic tends to hold on to the ball for too long, so we have to try and teach him when is the right time to let go."

Juventus coach Capello wants more from Zlatan

Tribal Football

Marcelo Zalayeta came off the bench to fire Juventus to a 1-0 victory at Udinese and extend the Bianconeri's lead at the top of Serie A to two points.

Uruguayan striker Zalayeta entered the fray at half-time, replacing David Trezeguet, and contributed the game's most meaningful moment when he headed home a corner just after the hour-mark.

Juve coach Fabio Capello said afterwards: "We had some good chances to settle the contest before we did. On two occasions their keeper has made outstanding saves.

"I see some improvement in Ibrahimovic. He still holds onto the ball too long - but he's getting better. But I am satisfied with the result. With a bit more aggression we could have scored more.

"The 15 day break will help us get Nedved back - it'll be good for us."

Del Piero told to rest

Planet Football

Juventus attacker Alessandro Del Piero will undergo two weeks' rehabilitation to rest his nagging tendon injury.

Del Piero has been hampered by the problem since Italy's World Cup qualifier against Moldova in early September. The injury has been cited as the reason behind his poor form for the Serie A leaders this season, amid reports of a feud at Stadio Delle Alpi.

There were also suggestions he would be omitted by Azzurri coach Marcello Lippi for next month's qualifiers against Slovenia and Belarus.

But Del Piero will now be an enforced absentee after Juventus confirmed the forward will undergo a fortnight of intense physiotherapy on the injury. Del Piero lamented the club's decision to take this course of action but he hopes to return to the team at peak fitness.

"I've tried until the last moment, hoping this problem could be solved," Del Piero told his personal website. "But it hasn't been so and now I can only stop playing to allow my tendon to be completely recovered.

"Juve's medical staff have spoken of a two-week rest and this means I'll not only have to miss the match against Udinese but also the two matches with the national team.

"It's a pity. I was really keen to be on the pitch. I hope to be playing again as soon as possible."

Four-month break for Trez?

Football Italia

David Trezeguet's continuing shoulder problems could see him undergo surgery and a four-month break from football, warned Juventus.

"The news on Trezeguet isn't good," conceded Coach Fabio Capello after today's 1-0 win at Udinese. "We will decide on what action to take during the week."

The Frenchman was substituted at half-time after falling heavily on to his shoulder. It is a problem area for him, as he pulled tendons in similar incidents twice last season.

"The shoulder," added Capello, "keeps popping out of position and at this stage he has to decide whether or not to go under the knife and sort it out once and for all. Surgery would mean a four-month break, but it really is his decision."

It's bad timing for the Bianconeri, who have already lost Alessandro Del Piero for two weeks with a tendon problem and would have only two strikers left at Capello's disposal.

Juventus wait as Chelsea's Mutu to move

Tribal Football

Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu is on his way out of Stamford Bridge. The News of the World says the Romania international will head the list of players to leave Stamford Bridge in the January transfer window.

Mutu almost joined Juventus in August and the Turin giants are sure to try again for the striker should he become available.

Italy: Lippi calls Cagliari star

Football Italia

Marcello Lippi has unveiled the Italy squad set to face Slovenia and Belarus, which includes Cagliari's Mauro Esposito but not Antonio Cassano.

Christian Vieri and Alessandro Del Piero are unavailable due to injury, but Fabio Cannavaro and Francesco Totti are back in the side following their physical problems.

Milan hitman Pippo Inzaghi was hoping for a recall after scoring his first goal in six months, but Lippi has chosen to wait until he can regain full fitness.

Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi and Parma's Alberto Gilardino have made the transition from the Under-21 side to senior Azzurri a permanent one, while Palermo's Luca Toni retains his spot following the winning goal against Norway on Sept 4.

One of the surprises for Lippi's second competitive round of games is Cagliari forward Mauro Esposito, who has scored two goals in Serie A so far this season and was sent off for a scuffle during the 2-1 win over Brescia on Saturday.

Esposito has taken the place of Euro 2004 star Cassano, who is struggling with slight fitness problems, but not enough to rule him out of these crucial World Cup qualifiers.

Another new face is Palermo fullback Christian Zaccardo, who had already been earmarked for a call-up during his time at Bologna. Valencia men Bernardo Corradi, Marco Di Vaio and Stefano Fiore are the only non-Serie A members of the squad.

Italy will travel to Celje for the clash with Slovenia on Saturday evening, followed by a game with Belarus at Parma's Stadio Tardini.

Gk: Buffon (Juventus), Pelizzoli (Roma)

D: Bonera (Parma), Cannavaro (Juventus), Materazzi (Inter), Nesta (Milan), Oddo (Lazio), Pancaro (Milan), Zaccardo (Palermo), Zambrotta (Juventus)

M: Blasi (Juventus), Camoranesi (Juventus), De Rossi (Roma), Diana (Sampdoria), Esposito (Cagliari), Fiore (Valencia), Gattuso (Milan), Perrotta (Roma)

F: Corradi (Valencia), Di Vaio (Valencia), Gilardino (Parma), Toni (Palermo), Totti (Roma)

Sunday 03 October

Udinese v Juventus: Preview

ESPN Soccernet

Juventus are still unbeaten both domestically and in the Champions League and will look to continue their excellent start when they visit Udinese.

Coach Fabio Capello has made an excellent start with the club he joined from Roma in the summer and will look to continue their journey as he makes a sentimental journey to the Friuli region where he grew up.

Friuli, situated near Italy's borders with Slovenia and Austria, is renowned for being the childhood home of many of Italy's most famous football coaches. Others include Roma boss Luigi Del Neri, Cesare Maldini, the late Nereo Rocco who coached AC Milan in the 1960s and Enzo Bearzot, the man who led Italy to glory at the 1982 World Cup.

Capello will have to do without Alessandro Del Piero who picked up an injured Achilles tendon in training in midweek and will have to sit out the next two weeks of action. With Zlatan Ibrahimovic and David Trezeguet available, however, Capello will not be losing any sleep at the absence of Del Piero.

Capello brought Emerson and Jonathan Zebina with him from Roma to Turin and Frenchman Zebina is delighted with the move. Zebina told the club's website: "From the first day of the season when we beat Brescia 3-0 we gave an important signal.

"We are a solid team and a great squad of players and the fact that we have conceded only one goal is not only down to me and (Fabio) Cannavaro but is down to the whole team who help cover us and the coach who is imposing his ideas on the squad.

"Motivation is our key," he explained. "Those who were here last year want to show their revenge while the new arrivals want to prove their worth."

Udinese had started the season well until they were somewhat surprisingly beaten at home by Brescia last weekend.

In midweek, the club was eliminated from the UEFA Cup by Greek side Panionios, but coach Luciano Spalletti pointed an accusing finger at referee Michal Benes after his team's early departure from the competition.

Thursday's 1-0 triumph at the Friuli stadium was not enough to see the Bianconeri progress to the group stage following their first-leg 3-0 loss at Panionios.

"I didn't like the way the game was refereed, it hindered us," said Spalletti. "My players deserved to qualify, they created great chances."

Udinese had a man sent off in the 54th minute when Marek Jankulovski was dismissed after kicking the ball towards an opponent who was on the ground.

"I cannot blame them, they have fought for 90 minutes, even when we were down to 10 men. But we have been unlucky," Spalletti added. "My players had tears in their eyes when they left the pitch. I am disappointed for them. I don't think is possible for such refereeing to be repeated.

"The Greeks have done everything to achieve their aim. They dived all over the pitch about 20 times but they were never booked and we have been punished for our only mistake, that of Jankulovski."

Udinese's Chilean striker David Pizarro is determined to end the week on a high against Juve, but has warned the club to keep a close eye on Emerson.

Pizarro told the club's website: "We had chances (against Panionios) but we could not hit the target. Now we are facing the best team or to be more precise the most clinical team in the country.

"Juve do not play the stylish football of (AC) Milan but they know how to get results. They are a very balanced team and that is largely down to Emerson. He's a great player and we will have to watch him carefully."

Capello keeps Alex on ice

Football Italia

Juventus face a tricky trip to the Stadio Friuli, but first Fabio Capello must fend off questions about injury-prone captain Alessandro Del Piero.

"Del Piero will only play when he is 100 per cent fit," noted the Coach after the latest tendon problem ruled him out for two weeks. "There is no pressure on him to rush the recovery process and we are all waiting for him with a relaxed state of mind."

There had been calls to drop Del Piero anyway due to his poor form and the summer arrival of Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

"David Trezeguet and Ibrahimovic are improving with each game," added Capello. "The Frenchman doesn't need an introduction with his scoring record, while the midweek Champions' League win over Maccabi Tel Aviv was Ibrahimovic's best performance since joining us."

This means that the squad rotation upfront is shelved for the time being, as Marcelo Zalayeta is the only remaining alternative to the first choice pairing.

There are changes to be expected elsewhere, as Fabio Cannavaro is still out with an ankle injury, while Alessio Tacchinardi suffered a slight muscular problem during training.

Juve are rarely far away from controversy and are wandering straight into it, as tomorrow's opponents Udinese were at the centre of a chaotic match last week.

Brescia took away a 2-1 victory after Mannini scored while the Friuli goalkeeper was down injured. The game could be replayed on appeal if the referee admits to having made a technical error in not halting play.

"I am not afraid of the referee trying to balance out the events," assured Capello when asked about this possibility. "All we must do is play football and allow the officials to be free of pressure in their decisions. If mistakes are made, then we must accept them."

Udinese saw Marek Jankulovski sent off in the fracas that followed that goal, so the Czech international and confirmed Juve transfer target is suspended.

"Jankulovski is a very important player for them, but I think there are far too many individuals that need to be watched carefully. Their team spirit is the most dangerous element, as like Sampdoria two weeks ago, Udinese are fired up by recent events."

Saturday 02 October

Juve to make Marek move

Football Italia

Juventus will reportedly sign Marek Jankulovski in January - but he may remain at Udinese for the rest of the season.

The Czech ace was a summer target for the Bianconeri but months of talks failed to conclude with an agreement. However, stories in Italy on Friday now claim that a switch may occur given that the player is only tied to the Friuli side until 2006.

Juve transfer wizard Luciano Moggi will allegedly meet with Udinese chief Gino Pozzo on Sunday as the two clubs clash at the Friuli. Whispers suggest that the Turin giants will conclude his signing in the New Year, yet allow him to remain on loan with his current team until the summer.

Jankulovski will play no part in the Week 5 tie though as he is suspended following his dismissal against Brescia. He was also red-carded in the UEFA Cup last night.

Meanwhile, the League leaders have reportedly made an approach for Messina left-back Alessandro Parisi.

"If an important offer arrives in January we could sell him," Messina sporting director Mariano Fabiani told the Guerin Sportivo magazine. "Parisi is an important player for us but a club like Messina must think in a certain way.

"Big sides are seeing his performances. Juve have been the first to make contact but Inter are also keen. We are ready to discuss a possible transfer. We will wait for the right proposal before opening talks."

Zebina praises boss Capello

Football Italia

Jonathan Zebina has thanked Juventus boss Fabio Capello for his maiden call-up to the France squad. The defender is in the French set-up to face the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus next week following a good start to the season.

"I must give Capello all of my thanks," he stated. "He never turned his back on me, not even during the difficult times. Capello has always trusted me and I think he will be proud of my inclusion on the international scene.

"He has won his bet and I will work like a dog to prove my worth. I can't wait to join the squad."

Zebina has operated under Capello for the last four years, as they were together at Roma before both joining Juventus over the summer. A move that Zebina believes will prove to be successful after he rejected the opportunity to sign for Italian champions Milan instead.

"I wasn't interested in joining the Rossoneri to just sit on the bench," added the former Cagliari stopper. "I am at Juventus and things are looking good for me. It is like a new start in my career and I made the right choice.''

Zebina, who signed on a free after his Giallorossi deal expired, is now the first choice right-back in Turin as Lilian Thuram has moved into a central role.

Emerson ready to see out career at Juventus

Tribal Football

Emerson is convinced he will see out his career at Juventus. The Brazilian international has started his Juve career in spectacular style after a drawn-out transfer battle with AS Roma over the summer.

"I have only been in Turin for two months, but I already feel settled in the city and at the club," he said. "I am feeling at home here and I'm very happy."

Inter swoop for Van der Vaart

Football Italia

The Nerazzurri are already looking to the future and it's reported they have already made enquiries for Dutch prodigy Rafael Van der Vaart. The 21-year-old creative midfielder is thought to be available at the end of the season for the right price, as Ajax maintain their policy of selling off young talent.

Many of the top European clubs are already tracking the player, including Manchester United, Juventus and Milan, but the main duel appears to be between Inter and Bayern Munich. When asked by a Dutch newspaper this week whether he'd accept a move to Munich he answered, "Of course, certainly."

This has seemingly pushed Inter into taking firm action quickly and negotiations with Ajax are taking shape. The two clubs already have a good rapport and have done several transfer deals, including last year's signing Andy van der Meyde.

Mascherano gains EU passport as Deportivo La Coruna move in

Tribal Football

River Plate midfielder Javier Mascherano has gained his European qualifications. The Argentina international was awarded an Italian passport this week and is now primed for a big money move to Europe.

Deportivo La Coruna are believed to have struck a tentative agreement with River for the 20 year-old, though the midfielder's agent says no contact has been received regarding Mascherano's availability.

Daniel Bolottnicoff told AS: "There was an European club that asked for Javier. But they viewed him as one for the future. For a player like Javier, who though 20 is now a regular with Argentina, that was impossible to consider.

"And the price varies according to the clubs. River has not valued the player. The normal thing would be that he goes for between £15 and £20 million."

AC Milan, Ajax, Man Utd all in for Tainio

Tribal Football

AC Milan and Manchester United are among clubs to be keeping tabs on Auxerre midfielder Temmu Tainio. The Finnish international is off contract at the end of the season and is also attracting interest from Ajax and Blackburn Rovers.

"I did consider staying here for at least three years," said Tainio yesterday. "But now the time has come to end the relationship."