Del Piero hits back at critics

August 30, 2000
Onefootball.com

Juventus striker Alessandro Del Piero has hit back at the criticism he has received after Italy's Euro 2000 final defeat in Rotterdam, saying the stick waved in his direction was out of order.

The star missed two glorious opportunities to give his country victory in this summer's final, and has struggled to recapture his old form since suffering a knee injury 18 months ago.

Last season in Serie A he only scored one goal from open play as Juventus lost the title race to free-scoring Lazio.

On Tuesday a group of Fiorentina fans climbed over the fences at Italy's training ground to shout insults at Del Piero as the squad were preparing for the World Cup qualifier against Hungary.

Del Piero said on Wednesday: "Recently there has been too much rage showed against me, people have been exaggerating their criticism, that has often been in bad faith.

"It is true that it is my destiny to be the centre of attention, but I think that in some cases the insults have been exaggerated. I want to change this situation of mistrust."

Del Piero also denied that he had a problem with Juventus owner Umberto Agnelli, who said Del Piero couldn't be looked after like a baby any more and can't use his injury problems as an excuse for lacklustre performances next season.

Del Piero said: "I did not worry about the fact that he called me mummy's darling. I think that he said it in good faith. Moreover, I think that Mr Agnelli wanted to point out the regard and affection that Juve's staff and supporters have towards me."
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