Conte Returns With Juve Pledge
Monday 10th December 2001
Antontio Conte made his long-awaited return to action for Juventus against AC Milan on Sunday after seven months out with a knee injury, and then insisted he wants to end his career at the Turin club.
The former Juve skipper had been due to return some months ago after surgery on his knee but complications arose leading to a further period on the treatment table.
"I could have been back before, but the doctors and I decided not to force the issue and prolong the resting period," he said.
"At this level of football you can often be rushed back too soon and Ronaldo is an example of that.
"Four months after my knee operation I was ready but then I had some trouble with my calf and I had to wait one month more."
But the Italian international is now back in the first team and keen to boost Juve's stuttering Serie A title challenge.
"I have a lot of experience and enthusiasm to offer to my team-mates. I want to play for two thirds of the season. I want to end my career here and I hope club agrees with me.
"I have given and received a lot from Juventus in my 11 years in Turin. I had a few problems with Marcello Lippi but I prefer to consider them as being in the past. I've still got the same mentality. I always want to win."
