Del Piero won't dodge penalty duties

February 20, 2002
Reuters

ROME - Italy striker Alessandro Del Piero has vowed to take Juventus' next penalty despite missing from the spot in their goalless draw against Deportivo La Coruna on Tuesday.

The Juventus striker saw his 73rd minute penalty saved by the Spaniards' goalkeeper Francisco Molina, denying the Italian side a Champions League victory.

The result leaves the Turin side top of group D on goal difference with all four sides, including Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen who drew 1-1 in Germany, on four points after three matches.

With Serie A leaders Juve preparing to face local rivals Torino on Sunday, Del Piero told Wednesday's Corriere Dello Sport: 'If we get another penalty I will definitely look to take it.

'Not earning three points can only be our fault, and mine in particular seeing that I missed a penalty.

'We must accept the draw but we must not be distracted from our objective to qualify. We tried to win and we definitely did more than Deportivo.'

Meanwhile, fellow striker David Trezeguet underlined his determination to remain at Juventus despite stories linking him with group rivals Arsenal at the weekend.

The French international said: '(Managing director Luciano) Moggi knows full well what I think. I want to stay at Juventus. Others can say things or make offers but I want to stay here.
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