I'm not worried, says Del Piero

August 31, 2000
Juventus Official Site

Alessandro Del Piero has responded to comments made by Juventus patriarchs Gianni and Umberto Agnelli, who called the striker a 'mummy's boy'.

Del Piero was the subject of intense media criticism last season, when he scored only one goal from open play.

The situation worsened at Euro 2000 when, despite a goal in the group game against Sweden, he was excoriated for his failure to convert chances in the Final against France.

Del Piero has kept his place in the Italy squad for the World Cup qualifier in Hungary. Yet coach Giovanni Trapattoni set tongues wagging again when he said he wouldn't wait forever for players to perform.

"Reading recent reports, there has been a lot of sniping in my direction; some people have been a bit too critical of my performances," Del Piero retorted. "I am used to being the centre of attention, but sometimes what they write can be a bit excessive."

"I am not reacting to the 'mummy's boy' comment, which I think was made in good faith. Umberto Agnelli was probably referring to the affection the supporters and staff at Juventus have for me.

"As for being called 'Godot' by Gianni Agnelli, again I take it as a compliment. In the play Waiting for Godot, Godot never appears, but he is always in the thoughts of the two protagonists for whom he is a kind of saviour.

"I don't worry about things I can't control. I am having a good time and I feel wanted. The only thing I ask is of myself: to answer the questions people are asking about me."
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