Juve still standing by Godot

September 21, 2000
Onefootball.com

Juventus general manager Luciano Moggi has reiterated his faith in Alessandro del Piero, despite the criticism the forward received for his disappointing performance against Panathinaikos in the Champions' League.

"Del Piero caused a national discussion," Moggi said, "but we are totally confident in him because he is playing better now and against Panathinaikos everyone disappointed us, not only Del Piero.

"Now, at the present time, he cannot win matches alone, as he did in the past. We will see what happens when Serie A begins again, but I repeat: Del Piero didn't disappoint us."

Del Piero has suffered a major loss of form over the past two seasons, and Juventus have been waiting for the return of the old Del Piero for so long that club owner Giovanni Agnelli has taken to calling him 'Godot'.

Juve's continued faith in Del Piero has earned them many critics, including Yugoslav striker Darko Kovacevic, who was left out of the team by coach Carlo Ancelotti on Tuesday.

"Yes, I was disappointed," he admitted. "I am a man. But I am happy at Juventus and will accept what my coach decides."
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