Del Piero's veredict

February 25, 2000
Juventus Official Site

On his return from a workmanlike 1-0 victory over Sweden (Del Piero pen), the talismanic Alessandro Del Piero spoke freely on a range of topics - including himself, Juventus and the imminent clash with Roma.

ITALY
Even a friendly provides you with incentives. As it did yesterday. Coming on as a substitute had a strange effect on me - perhaps it's because I'm not used to it, but I managed to get into the pace of the match pretty easily. It's right that it should be this way - as there are a lot of strikers in this squad, a crowd, and I feel like just one amongst many. I know I'm not yet at my best, and so to make sure I get a starting spot I need to work hard.

THAT PENALTY
Nothing happened between Inzaghi and me. The explanation is simple. He took the ball straight away and put the ball on the spot - probably because he hadn't heard Zoff say that I should take it. That's it. As for what happened in Venezia, the situation has been resolved - rather, there never was a 'situation'. As for the next penalty, may be we'll let Zidane take it.

ROMA
When I was with the Italy squad, there was a lot of fooling around concerning the Roma match on Sunday. There's a good atmosphere between all of us players, which bodes well for the match. You can play aggressively on the pitch - the important thing is that when it's all over we shake hands. It should be a real match - hopefully spectacular - but it won't decide the Scudetto, just another match on the path.

THE REFEREES DEBATE
Every one is free to give their own opinions - I just feel that the referees need to work in peace, and we should be the first to help them.

FITNESS
The end of February is a crucial time in the season. Let's say one stage of the Championship ends. I won't be radically changing my way of playing, but there will inevitably be a few steps forward in terms of fitness. Steps forward that will be visible on the pitch I hope.
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