Looking ahead to Bari

October 12, 2000
Juventus Official Site

The famous number 10 shirt, worn by those talented, creative players for whom fans will gladly hand over their hard earned entrance fee to get a glimpse, has been the hot topic for discussion as Juventus prepare to take on Bari on Sunday.

Juventus manager Carlo Ancelotti heaped praise on his own number 10 Alessandro Del Piero as the Juve star grabbed both goals as Italy defeated Georgia. The Bianconero coach insisted he was not at all surprised as Alex once again confirmed the form he is in after his recent goal against Napoli. "I am happy that he gave Italy victory. He again showed an ice-cool temperament and excellent determination when converting the two penalties," Ancelotti declared. "As far as I am concerned he is in good form at just the right time for the upcoming matches in Serie A and the Champions League."

The match on Sunday brings together two number 10's, one is the Bianconero's current owner Del Piero while the other is Bari's precocious young talent Antonio Cassano. Ancelotti was unequivocal when we asked his opinion on the young jewel of Italian football. "Last year he had a great season, this year he has to do all over again," he pointed out. "Have Juve expressed an interest? Yes, they have, as have many other teams."

Another fan of the young Cassano is Zinedine Zidane who, after recovering from a muscle injury which kept him out of France's two recent friendlies, is now ready to return to action. "Cassano is very talented," Zizou insisted. "I've already seen him play, but all I want to think about is Juve. We have to carry on where we left off in the second half against Napoli. This break has done everybody the world of good. We won't let our fans down as they are so keen to see us not only win but win in style at the Delle Alpi on Sunday."
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