From the papers

April 24, 2001
Juventus Official Site

The three Scudetto giants reveal their doping fears to the GAZZETTA DELLO SPORT. In the face of the ever-increasing lists of players accused of doping, our football stars are becoming ever more afraid of what medicines are safe, and even of what to eat, drink, and are calling for greater clarification, and even blood tests in preference over urine. Meanwhile, now that Davids' result is confirmed, Juve's lawyers are preparing their defence, but his agent, Guariniello, is saying nothing.

Back to the game itself, there's some criticism by General Manager Moggi of Ancelotti's choice to bring on Fonseca instead of Kovacevic in the second half. The Bianconero coach refuses to be baited, though, declaring: "I made a choice, I'd do the same again". For the players, Zidane admits that he is feeling extremely tired at this stage of the season, but nevertheless still believes in the team's chances of taking the title. Del Piero's slight injury picked up on Sunday means that he will probably skip the game against Lecce, in time to recover for the big game with Roma.

CORRIERE DELLO SPORT also carries confirmation of Davids' failed test. Del Piero and pals plead for clarification on illegal substances. On the field, meanwhile, Alex, who it's revealed won't play with the Azzurri in tomorrow's friendly because of a sprained muscle, stresses confidently that Juve are still in good form to take the title: "Juve showed in Parma that they are ready for the Scudetto race". The coach, however, is hedging his bets and hoping that Lazio will nonetheless put a break on Roma on Sunday night.

TUTTOSPORT, however, returns to its favourite topic. Today's scoop tells us that Toldo is set to arrive in Turin to replace a Barca-bound Van der Sar, while Kovacevic moves in the opposite direction. On the doping scandal, judgements are deferred until the Dutchman has his own say. In the background, Del Piero and other Serie A stars are united in calling for clarity and information around illegal substances and their production. Finally, its the rediscovered Bianconero champ again, who reassures the fans that, whilst out for the national game and Lecce, he will be back for the crucial clash with Roma.
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