From the papers

February 5, 2000
Juventus Official Site

Tonight sees Alessandro Del Piero return to the scene of his terrible injury of 15 months ago. The Turin-based daily, Tuttosport, headlines with "Alex's Night". On page seven the paper concentrates on Carlo Ancelotti who is keen to see his team back on a roll: "Juve, it's time for take-off." The Bianconero coach wants to scare the chasing pack. "We need to frighten Lazio. I'm betting on Del Piero and Inzaghi: they are on top form."

Tuttosport also cover possible transfer moves by the Bianconeri. The club are reported to be interested in Hernan Crespo, the Parma striker, but Parma would want Paolo Montero in return.

The Corriere dello Sport also start with news on the Juventus number 10, but their coverage is a little more critical - "Del Piero, in Udine looking for goals." On page two, there is also mention of his injury last year, while a few pages on, Ancelotti issues a warning: "It will be both an open and a spectacular match."

The coach immediately finds room for Enzo Maresca on the Juve bench. The player signed from West Bromwich Albion can cover all the midfield roles and is highly regarded by the club. He will play in the Viareggio youth tournament.

Meanwhile the Gazzetta dello Sport, emphasising the recent dip in form of the Bianconeri, has the front-page headline: "Juve Under The Cosh". As far as Italy’s premier football pink is concerned, the League leaders face a tough match in Udine. At the top of page three, there is also an analysis of the problems facing Ancelotti's team with the headline, "Juve looking for a kick-start".
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