Happy returns for Del Piero

November 9, 2001
Onefootball.com

Alessandro Del Piero celebrated his 27th birthday on a high on Friday after spending the last few years struggling to over come set-backs. "To be here, playing at the highest level, is my best possible present," the Juventus star declared.

"This is my happiest birthday in three years," explained Del Piero.

"Two years ago I was injured and last year we (Juventus) were already out of the Champions' League."

"Playing at highest level is my best present, more important than the many presents I have yet to open."

The Italy striker accepts, however, that Juve are going through a difficult patch in Serie A, where they have failed to win for six matches.

"In Serie A we are not brilliant," Del Piero explained. "I'm sure, however, all these difficulties will help us to improve.

"In the Champions' League we have played some good matches which show our problems are not so deep."
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