Del Piero has best intentions in Japan

May 9, 2002
Onefootball

Italy striker Alessandro del Piero will use the World Cup stage to prove he is back at the top of his game. "In France, I had just recovered from injury. In Japan, I will arrive at my best," declared the Juventus star.

Del Piero's failure to produce for Italy was at its most apparent at Euro 2000 when he was heavily criticised for missing a series of chances in the final defeat to France.

However, the former Serie A golden boy claims he never contemplated not going to the World Cup.

"I had always faith in Giovanni Trapattoni and he always assured me I would be in the squad," he explained. "I never feared to losing the opportunity to go to Japan and I will be looking for revenge after the disappointing 1998 World Cup."

Del Piero and France striker David Trezeguet netted 40 goals between them as Juve claimed their 26th Scudetto and the Italy forward believes the national side will benefit from the Turin club's success.

"I will give something more as will my team-mates," he said.
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