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GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Allegri defends Juventus form Oct 28, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri has responded to criticism of his Juventus side ahead of their trip to the Marassi to take on Genoa on Wednesday night. The Old Lady have been struggling in October, losing in the Champions League to Atletico Madrid and Olympiacos, as well as drawing at Sassuolo before labouring to a 2-0 home victory over Palermo on Sunday. Former Juventus Coach Marcello Lippi believes that the team has seen a drop in intensity since the departure of Antonio Conte, and this point was raised with the current tactician today. “I think Lippi did say that,” Allegri admitted in response to assembled journalists. “But I think he also said something else - that a team reflects the will and character of its Coach. “The lads played with huge intensity for two months, also playing excellent football. There might be a period of poor performances, but League titles aren’t won by playing well, or rather not by playing well in every game. “There will be times when you don’t play as well. “For us, ‘not playing well’ is having seven or eight shots on goal in a game, so in the end it’s not really that bad. “It’s true that we have to play better than we did in the first half against Palermo, in a technical sense. “To do this everyone has to be better at using the ball, and above all we have to make less mistakes which is what happened against Palermo and what happened in Greece [the 1-0 defeat to Olympiacos]. “Strangely we actually played better in Greece, even though everyone slaughtered us, because as always and quite rightly the result affects the assessment of the performance.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Allegri considers Tevez rest Oct 28, 2014 Carlos Tevez could be rested for Juventus’ trip to the Marassi on Wednesday, Coach Massimiliano Allegri has revealed. The Argentinean has been in inspirational form for the Bianconeri this term, with eight goals in 11 games across all competitions. However, with the Old Lady competing in both Serie A and the Champions League, Tevez could be afforded the opportunity to recharge his batteries in the midweek the trip to Genoa. “Tevez had a good game on Sunday, I’ll evaluate him today,” Allegri told his pre-match Press conference. “I’ll have to see. If somebody is a bit tired, there are others who will be more than ready to play this game. “Because everyone else is fit I have lot of choice in both the forward line and midfield, although in defence I have a little less.” Juventus have a number of options to replace Tevez should he be rested, with Fernando Llorente, Alvaro Morata, Kingsley Coman and Sebastian Giovinco all fit and ready to play if needed. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Gasperini: Genoa will try to win Oct 28, 2014 Genoa Coach Gian Piero Gasperini is demanding his players go out to win when they face Juventus at the Marassi on Wednesday. Gasperini’s side ran the Bianconeri very close last season, falling to a last-minute Andrea Pirlo strike, and the Grifone Coach believes his men can cause them problems again. “Genoa have a duty to try and win,” Gasperini told La Repubblica. “Last year against the Juventus which got 102 points, we had them on the verge of defeat. “Twenty minutes from the end Buffon saved a penalty, then in the 90th minute Pirlo pops up with a free-kick. “We must defend as a team, without ever being passive, just like when we won 3-2 [against Juventus in 2009], with Thiago Motta and Palladino. “Although it was Ranieri’s Juve and not Conte’s, winning was a source of great satisfaction.” The Genoa boss also spoke of the weapons at Max Allegri’s disposal, and the differences between the former Milan Coach’s Juve side and Antonio Conte’s all-conquering team. “If Pirlo doesn’t play, Marchisio will be in midfield, and in attack Allegri is spoiled for choice. “At the back even with Evra, Caceres and Barzagli injured they’re still the same. “For now there are very few differences between Conte’s Juve and Allegri’s. “Allegri came in cautiously and is now shaping the team in his own image. “For that matter, even Conte changed his way of playing. His first Juve was frantic and aggressive, whereas last season’s was quieter and less fierce in pressing in order to save energy.” Gasperini has been rather active in the Press, also giving an interview to Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, where the Coach talked about his formative years at Juventus. “Ten years of my youth and as many as a Coach at Juventus were the most important part of my personal growth, an irreplaceable experience.” Gasperini will not, however, be misty eyed when he takes on the Bianconeri, calling on the Genoa fans to loudly back his side. “I think tomorrow will be a demonstration of everything I like about Genoa, and that includes the fans. “The fans won’t be asking us to go out there and win comfortably, they’d take a repeat of last year’s performance, as would I.” This comes after Gasperini’s words of criticism aimed at a section of the Grifone support for whistling the team following their last home match against Empoli. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Buffon set for 500th Juve game Oct 28, 2014 Gianluigi Buffon will make his 500th Juventus appearance when the Bianconeri meet Genoa tomorrow. The Juve and Italy captain has been a fixture between the posts for the Old Lady since a €51m move from Parma in 2001, still the highest transfer fee ever paid for a goalkeeper. Buffon made his debut during a 4-0 win over Venezia on August 26, 2001, two goals each for David Trezeguet and Alessandro Del Piero ensuring the Carrara-native got his Juventus career off to a winning start. The big goalkeeper made his 100th appearance in a 2-1 win away to Olympiacos in 2003’s Champions League campaign, while his 200th game was a bittersweet occasion as the Old Lady went down 2-0 to Arsenal in a Champions League quarter-final. After reaching 300 games against Chievo in 2009, Buffon made his 400th appearance against another English opponent, with the Bianconeri fighting back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on September 19, 2012. Buffon is poised to renew his contract in Turin to June 2017, and has a few other records within his grasp. While it remains unlikely that the former Parma man will overtake Alessandro Del Piero’s 705 games in the famous black and white stripes, Gaetano Scirea’s 552 games and Giuseppe Furino’s 528 appear more reasonable targets. If Juve beat Genoa tomorrow, it will represent a double celebration for Buffon - three points would signify the goalkeeper’s 300th win in Serie A. The goalkeeper, who also holds the record for the most Italy caps, will be glad he isn’t facing Francesco Totti tomorrow - the Roma captain is the player who has scored past Buffon most often, beating him 11 times.

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Genoa v Juventus: Preview Oct 28, 2014 Juventus are eager to secure the victory at Genoa that would suitably commemorate the achievements of veteran Gianluigi Buffon on his 500th appearance for the Turin club. Buffon, now 36, supported Genoa as a boy but has since won five Serie A titles with the Bianconeri - two more were revoked due to the Calciopoli scandal - since he joined from Parma in 2001. And Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri, in his first year at the helm in Turin, is enjoying working with one of Italy's all-time great players. ``He's always decisive and that's the difference between world-class players and normal ones,'' Allegri said. ``He deals with one shot on his goal throughout an entire game, and then he is decisive. ``That's the difference between Buffon and other goalkeepers.'' Buffon kept yet another a clean sheet in Sunday's 2-0 victory over Palermo. Goals from Arturo Vidal and Fernando Llorente allowed Juve to re-establish their three-point lead at the top of the standings after second-placed Roma were held to a goalless draw by Sampdoria. ``It was an important win because we were able to extend our advantage over Roma,'' Allegri added. ``Now we must continue down this path and try to give our all in Genoa.'' The Grifone will be hoping to replicate the performance that saw them hold Juve to a 1-1 draw in Turin earlier this year. Genoa go into the encounter at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris on the back of a 2-1 triumph at Chievo that saw them climb to ninth place. The outcome was their third win of the season and extended their unbeaten run to a third game. ``I hope the victory against Chievo will give us a boost in confidence and make us more efficient when we're playing at home,'' said Genoa coach Gian Piero Gasperini. ``Our fans will demand the players show courage against Juve and I hope we deliver.'' The visitors will be without the injured Patrice Evra, the French left-back who sustained a muscle problem against Palermo that is expected to keep him sidelined for a month. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Genoa-Juventus Preview: Allegri ready to rotate after Palermo win The Italian champions will play their fourth game in 12 days on Wednesday and their coach admits some of the players are beginning to feel the strain. Oct 28, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri has hinted he may rotate his squad for Juventus' midweek trip to Genoa. The Serie A champions and leaders visit the Stadio Comunale Luigi Ferraris on Wednesday for what will be their fourth game in 12 days. Juve bounced back from their disappointing Champions League defeat at Olympiakos with a routine, if laboured, 2-0 home victory over Palermo on Sunday. The loss in Greece came after a surprise 1-1 draw against struggling Sassuolo, and coach Allegri feels his players are understandably showing some signs of fatigue after a blistering start to the season. Juve - unbeaten in Serie A since March - won their first six games of the campaign in all competitions without conceding a goal, but have emerged victorious from just two of their last five outings - a relative slump that has included back-to-back Champions League defeats. Speaking after the Palermo game, Allegri indicated that he sees Wednesday's match as an opportunity to rest some first-team regulars. "Keep in mind that players like [Leonardo] Bonucci, [Giorgio] Chiellini and [Angelo] Ogbonna might have already played 12 or 13 games so far [this season], the same with Carlos Tevez," commented the former AC Milan boss. "It's normal if someone is tired - therefore, wise rotation comes in handy. "At the end of the day, and during the league, the most important thing is to win games even when you don't play well. "You have to realise, we have played very well for two months, making huge efforts and running out of energy." Referring specifically to top-scorer Tevez, who was substituted with 10 minutes left against Palermo after laying on Arturo Vidal's opener, Allegri added: "As usual, [he] didn't spare any energy. He was decisive when we took the lead. "He's already played many games this season - that is why [sebastian] Giovinco replaced him and did very well. Besides I have [Alvaro] Morata and that young kid [Kingsley] Coman, who is ready and raring to play. "Thus, should I decide to make changes next Wednesday, I have excellent alternatives." Allegri - who will be without Patrice Evra after the full-back sustained a hamstring injury last week - will not be taking Genoa lightly, though, as Gian Piero Gasperini's side have lost just one of their last seven Serie A fixtures. They came from behind to win 2-1 at lowly Chievo on Sunday, with former Juve striker Alessandro Matri scoring the equaliser at the Stadio Marc'Antonio Bentegodi. Predictably, though, recent history in this fixture is against Genoa, as they have not beaten Juve since April 2009 - a run that stretches back 10 games. OPTA FACTS *Genoa and Juventus have met 94 times in Serie A, with 56 wins for the Bianconeri and 18 for the Rossoblu. *Juventus are the side with the most wins (56) and the most goals scored (196) against Genoa in Serie A. *Genoa’s last win against Juventus dates back to April 2009: there have been six wins for the Bianconeri and four draws in their last 10 clashes. LAST FIVE MATCHES Genoa W D W L D 2014/10/26 - Chievo 1 - 2 Genoa 2014/10/20 - Genoa 1 - 1 Empoli 2014/10/05 - Parma 1 - 2 Genoa 2014/09/28 - Genoa 0 - 1 Sampdoria 2014/09/24 - Verona 2 - 2 Genoa Juventus W L D W L 2014/10/26 - Juventus 2 - 0 Palermo 2014/10/22 - Olympiakos 1 - 0 Juventus 2014/10/18 - Sassuolo 1 - 1 Juventus 2014/10/05 - Juventus 3 - 2 Roma 2014/10/01 - Atlético Madrid 1 - 0 Juventus HEAD TO HEAD 2014/03/16 - Genoa 0 - 1 Juventus 2013/10/27 - Juventus 2 - 0 Genoa 2013/01/26 - Juventus 1 - 1 Genoa 2012/09/16 - Genoa 1 - 3 Juventus 2012/03/11 - Genoa 0 - 0 Juventus http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Pogba nominated for Ballon d’Or Oct 28, 2014 Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba is Serie A’s sole representative on the FIFA Ballon d’Or shortlist revealed this morning. The 23-man shortlist for the award to recognise the world’s best player from the past 12 months has been announced by the game’s governing body and France Football magazine. It features no Italian players, but does include Juve’s young France international Pogba, who picked up the Best Young Player Award at this summer’s World Cup. Captains and head Coaches of every national team plus selected representatives from the world media will cast their votes, with a three-man shortlist to be announced on December 1. The award winner will then be revealed in a special televised ceremony at the Zurich Kongresshaus on January 12, 2015, with several other awards being presented at the same time, including the FIFA World Coach of the Year Award, which Antonio Conte and Carlo Ancelotti are in contention for. The FIFA FIFPro World XI, the FIFA Puskás Award – for the most beautiful goal of the year – the FIFA Presidential Award and the FIFA Fair Play Award will also be presented. Juventus and Milan shared the record for most Ballon d’Or wins by club - 8 - before the competition was merged with the FIFA World Player of the Year Award, since when the award has only been won by Lionel Messi - three times - and Cristiano Ronaldo - once. FIFA Ballon D’Or 2014 shortlist Gareth Bale (Wales/Real Madrid), Karim Benzema (France/Real Madrid), Diego Costa (Spain/Atletico Madrid/Chelsea), Thibaut Courtois (Belgium/Atletico Madrid/Chelsea), Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal/Real Madrid), Angel Di Maria (Argentina/Real Madrid), Mario Goetze (Germany/Bayern Munich), Eden Hazard (Belgium/Chelsea), Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden/Paris Saint-Germain), Andres Iniesta (Spain/Barcelona), Toni Kroos (Germany/Bayern Munich), Philipp Lahm (Germany/Bayern Munich), Javier Mascherano (Argentina/Barcelona), Lionel Messi (Argentina/Barcelona), Thomas Mueller (Germany/Bayern Munich), Manuel Neuer (Germany/Bayern Munich), Neymar (Brazil/Barcelona), Paul Pogba (France/Juventus), Sergio Ramos (Spain/Real Madrid), Arjen Robben (Netherlands/Bayern Munich), James Rodriguez (Colombia/Monaco/Real Madrid), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Germany/Bayern Munich), Yaya Toure (Côte d’Ivoire/Manchester City)

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Buffon Set For 500th Juventus Appearance Oct 28, 2014 Gianluigi Buffon is set to make his 500th Juventus appearance against Genoa on Wednesday evening. That number brings him closer to surpassing club legends Giuseppe Furino and Gaetano Scirea, who have 528 and 552 appearances, respectively. Indeed, according to Tuttosport, the Italian No.1 has no intention of hanging up his gloves just yet, and fully intends to stay with Juventus until at least 2018. It is thought he wants to break the all-time appearance record of 705 set by his former teammate Alessandro Del Piero. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Genoa V Juventus – Preview: Grifone Attempt To End Bianconeri Dominance Oct 28, 2014 Juventus will travel to the Stadio Luigi Ferraris on Wednesday night where the Bianconeri will put their unbeaten record on the line against Genoa. Massimiliano Allegri’s men are coming off a 2-0 home domination of Palermo which saw Fernando Llorente get his first Serie A goal of the season. Meanwhile, Genoa are undefeated in six of their last seven matches, including Sunday’s late win thanks to Mauricio Pinilla. Genoa currently sit mid-table with 12 points, and the team have shown an acute ability to get late goals. All three wins this season have come with the winning goal after the 85th minute. Sunday’s 2-1 come from behind win over Chievo came courtesy of Gian Piero Gasperini’s decision to pair Alessandro Matri and Pinilla together after the team went a goal down in the first half. Against Juventus, Gasperini will most likely start with one striker, something that he has done throughout the season. This has been one reason the team have found goals hard to come by. Juventus continue to roll in Serie A as the distance between themselves and second place Roma is now three points. The champions are averaging two goals a game, but Genoa have been adequate at the back despite showing a few cracks. The Grifone’s defence, led by Luca Antonelli and Sebastien De Maio have given up a mere eight goals in eight games. A far cry from years past. In 2006, these two rivals met in Serie B, following Juventus’ relegation due to Calciopoli, for the first time since the mid-90s. At the end of that season both teams were promoted to Serie A. Since that first meeting in 2006-07, Juventus have won ten of the teams’ 16 meetings. In that time, Genoa have tallied a solitary win, which came in April 2009. The Bianconeri have dominated the last two meetings winning 2-0 and 1-0, respectively. One factor that could impact upon how both teams play will be the pitch at the Marassi. Due to the massive flooding in the Genoa area over the last few weeks, the pitch and the stadium have been affected. The playing surface has cut up very easily in the last two games played at the stadium (Genoa v Empoli; Sampdoria v Roma). The surface has caused problems with shooting, passing and footing, and should continue to cause havoc on Wednesday night as both teams try to continue their unbeaten runs. Expected Starting XIs Genoa: Perin, Antonelli, De Maio, Burdisso, Edenilson, Bertolacci, Kucka, Greco, Falque, Perotti, Matri Juventus: Buffon, Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini, Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Asamoah, Tevez, Llorente http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Tevez returns to Argentina squad The striker has been selected by Gerardo Martino for the friendlies against Portugal and Croatia, having been overlooked by his country since 2011. Oct 27, 2014 Juventus striker Carlos Tevez has been handed his first Argentina call-up for three years after being named in the squad for their forthcoming friendlies. The former Manchester City forward has been in the international wilderness since 2011, when he made an appearance in the Copa America quarter-final defeat to Uruguay. However, Gerardo Martino, who took over as head coach of the Albiceleste following their World Cup final defeat this summer, stated earlier this month that "the doors were open" to Tevez to return to the squad should he prove his worth at club level. And the former Barcelona boss has finally rewarded the 30-year-old striker with a return to the squad to face Portugal and Croatia, after his eight goals in 10 games for Juventus so far in 2014-15. Captain Lionel Messi is also included in what is otherwise a largely-expected squad, along with Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero, Manchester United star Angel Di Maria and Barcelona's Javier Mascherano. Willy Caballero is handed a place despite his lack of game time for City this season, while Tottenham's Erik Lamela is included to cap a fine few days following his outstanding rabona goal in the Europa League. Squad in full: Goalkeepers: Sergio Romero (Sampdoria), Willy Caballero (Manchester City), Nahuel Guzman (Tigres) Defenders: Nicolas Otamendi (Valencia), Martin Demichelis (Manchester City), Marcos Rojo (Manchester United), Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City), Federico Fazio (Tottenham), Federico Fernandez (Swansea), Ezequiel Garay (Zenit), Facundo Roncaglia (Genoa), Cristian Ansaldi (Atletico Madrid) Midfielders: Javier Mascherano (Barcelona), Ever Banega (Sevilla), Robert Pareyra (Juventus), Lucas Biglia (Lazio), Angel Di Maria (Manchester United), Erik Lamela (Tottenham), Javier Pastore (Paris Saint-Germain), Enzo Perez (Benfica), Nicolas Gaitan (Benfica) Forwards: Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Carlos Tevez (Juventus), Gonzalo Higuain (Napoli), Sergio Aguero (Manchester City).

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Preview: Genoa vs. Juventus Oct 27, 2014 Genoa will attempt to record their first Serie A win over Juventus since 2009 when they welcome the Italian champions to Genova on Wednesday. In total, these two sides have met 94 times in the league, with Juventus winning 56 of those matches and losing just 18 times in the process. In more recent history, Juventus have won six of the last 10 matches against Genoa, remaining unbeaten in the process. The home side will enter the match full of confidence, however, after taking seven points from their last three league games, with Saturday's 2-1 win over Chievo moving them into ninth position in the table. Juventus might have lost their last two matches in the Champions League, but they have won seven of their eight league games this season, with a total of 22 points leaving them top of the table, three points clear of second-place Roma. The champions, who have scored 16 times in their eight games and conceded just three, will enter the match, meanwhile, off the back of a 2-0 win over Palermo on Sunday. The home side have no fresh injury concerns from their clash with Chievo last time out, but on-loan AC Milan forward Alessandro Matri is pushing for a start after a goal and assist at the weekend. Mauricio Pinilla should continue as the lone striker, while Diego Perotti will operate in a wide position, leaving Iago Falque on the bench once again. Juventus, meanwhile, will be without the services of French defender Patrice Evra, who is expected to miss the next month of the season with a thigh problem. As a result, Kwadwo Asamoah is expected to start at left wing-back, while Paul Pogba and Stephan Lichtsteiner are also expected to return to the XI after starting on the bench against Palermo. Recent form Genoa: D L W D W Juventus: L W D L W Possible starting lineups Genoa: Perin; Burdisso, Roncaglia, De Maio; Edenilson, Bertolacci, Kucka, Antonelli; Matri, Pinilla, Perotti Juventus: Buffon; Chiellini, Bonucci, Ogbonna; Asamoah, Pogba, Vidal, Marchisio, Lichtsteiner; Tevez, Llorente Sports Mole says: 1-2 http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Evra to miss a month for Juventus Having not featured for the Scudetto holders' victory at the weekend, the Frenchman is now set to be sidelined for around 30 days with a muscular problem. Oct 27, 2014 Juventus left-back Patrice Evra has been sidelined for a month with a hamstring strain. The French defender sat out Sunday's 2-0 win over Palermo, having suffered the injury in training ahead of the Serie A clash. And coach Massimiliano Allegri will now have to do without the experienced player for upcoming crunch matches against Olympiakos in the Champions League and Lazio in Serie A. "Patrice Evra was absent from the group [training on Monday] following the injury he sustained late last week," a club statement read. "The Frenchman underwent medical tests earlier today which revealed a strain of the biceps femoris muscle [hamstring] in his left thigh, and he is estimated to return to action in 30 days." Evra has made six appearances since moving to Turin from Manchester United in the summer.

Falcao wanted to join Juventus - Marotta The Italian giants' managing director has indicated that the Colombian forward had prioritised joining his team until events transpired to move him to Manchester United. Oct 27, 2014 Radamel Falcao wanted to join Juventus this summer before being coerced into his €10 million loan move to Manchester United, according to the Turin club's managing director Giuseppe Marotta. Falcao joined Monaco last summer but the Ligue 1 club decided to cash in on many of their biggest players - including his Colombian compatriot James Rodriguez to Real Madrid - during the last transfer window and Louis van Gaal's side won the race for his signature on deadline day. The Scudetto holders were one of the many clubs reported to be interested and Marotta confirmed those suspicions, claiming the Colombian striker was keen to ditch Monaco for Turin before the Ligue 1 club struck a deal with the Red Devils. "We followed Falcao, but there has been no contact since he moved to Manchester United," the Juve chief told Domenica Sportiva. "We were very close to signing him and the striker wanted to give priority to move to Italy to wear Bianconeri colours. "Then, however, a deal was done to send the forward to Manchester United, who now have a preferential right of purchase, though that deal is a little blurred." Falcao has scored once in five appearances for the Red Devils so far this season, compared to the two goals he netted for Monaco in three games before leaving the Stade Louis II.

Evra to miss a month? Oct 27, 2014 Patrice Evra will reportedly spend a month on the sidelines as a result of a hamstring injury that kept him out of Juventus’ win over Palermo on Sunday. The Frenchman skipped the weekend win having suffered with discomfort in the back of his left thigh and has undergone tests this morning. Tuttosport reports that those examinations carried out have revealed that the former Manchester United man has sustained a strained hamstring and will be out of action until late November. The news will come as a blow for Massimiliano Allegri’s side, who are short of options on the left flank, with Kwadwo Asamoah the only other recognised starter in the role. The Turin-based newspaper speculates that Roberto Pereyra or Simone Padoin could be asked to fill in on the left-hand side on occasion until Evra recovers, with Juventus juggling both Serie A and Champions League commitments.

Pogba: I play like Yaya Toure The midfielder has been studying the Manchester City midfielder amongst a number of other players in his position in a bid to improve his game. Oct 27, 2014 Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has likened his playing style to that of Manchester City star Yaya Toure. The France international signed a new contract with the Serie A champions until 2019 on Friday, having become a key figure for club and country since arriving in Turin after leaving Manchester United on a free transfer two years ago. Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri said over the weekend that Pogba still has lots of work to do to become one of the best players in the world and he has responded by revealing how he studies many of the game's finest players in his position. "I think there are lots of players still better than me, but it's not up to me to worry about this sort of comparison," he told Fifa.com. "I try to do my job and be the best I possibly can. "There are lots of midfielders I admire and watching them helps me improve. I could mention, for example, Yaya Toure, who has a similar size and physique to me but more experience. We have more or less the same playing style, even if he's a bit more attacking than me." Pogba featured at his first World Cup in Brazil earlier this year, playing a key role as France made the quarter-finals before bowing out to eventual winners Germany. Les Bleus coach Didier Deschamps is one of two midfield greats to have worked with Pogba - ex-Juve boss Antonio Conte the other - and the former Manchester United prodigy feels both both have aided his development. "I've progressed with both of them. Didier Deschamps, for example, knows me very well and knows how to manage me," he added. "He helps me improve every day, whether it's in training or in a match. "He gives me the desire to give my best. He always gives me good advice and he's very honest with me. As a player, you really appreciate getting trust and encouragement from your coach. "What he tells me most is to, 'stay focused and keep things simple', the way he used to do so well."

JUVENTUS - PALERMO 2 - 0 Arturo Vidal (32') Fernando Llorente (64') Sunday, October 26th, 2014 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Llorente delighted to end goal drought The Spaniard has endured a poor start to the campaign and was understandably elated to score his first goal in nine games on Sunday. Oct 27, 2014 Juventus striker Fernando Llorente has voiced his delight with his goal in the reigning Serie A champions' 2-0 win over Palermo on Sunday. The Spanish attacker had gone nine official games without finding the net in 2014-15, but scored his side's second goal as they bagged the full three points against the Sicilians at the weekend. "It’s a very important victory and I’m very happy with my contribution to the result," Llorente told reporters. "It’s a special day for me because it’s my first goal of the season and I couldn’t wait to bag it. It’ll definitely help me going forward to keep aiding the team. "It’s not easy scoring from corners because the defenders are jostling you. I was waiting for a delivery like that to come my way and get off the mark for the campaign." The former Athletic Bilbao man then went on to praise Juventus' overall performance against Palermo. "We went out there knowing what we had to do: be aggressive from the off. We did it very well and had many opportunities to score in the first-half. "It was a good performance from everyone involved and we need to continue in the same vein." Juventus remain atop of the Serie A table following this weekend's results, holding a three-point lead over second-placed Roma. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Arsenal Preparing January Bid For Lichtsteiner Oct 27, 2014 Arsenal are apparently preparing a bid for Juventus’ Swiss right back Stephan Lichtsteiner. The Gunners are looking to bolster their defence in January and is attracted by the Swiss international’s Champions League experience. According to the Daily Mail, Arsenal would be prepared to submit a bid as early as January for the 30 year old who is out of contract at the end of the season, and could leave for a reduced fee. Talks are expected between the Bianconeri and Lichtsteiner over a new deal, but there have been rumours of Udinese’s Silvan Widmer joining the club as a replacement for his international teammate. If Lichtsteiner did join Arsenal in January, he would be cup-tied for the Champions League, as he has already played in the competition this season for Juventus.

JUVENTUS - PALERMO 2 - 0 Arturo Vidal (32') Fernando Llorente (64') Sunday, October 26th, 2014 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Juventus vs. Palermo: Winners and Losers from Serie A Game Oct 26, 2014 After a run of poor performances, Juventus hosted Palermo on Sunday afternoon knowing their recent form left much room for improvement. Losses to Atletico Madrid and Olympiacos in the Champions League sandwiched Serie A encounters with Roma and Sassuolo that were little better. Despite taking four points from those matches, the Bianconeri had struggled to impress in almost a month but knew the struggling Sicilians would provide a much less arduous test. The Rosanero had won just once in the opening seven rounds of the campaign, with Beppe Iachini’s newly promoted side struggling to adjust to life in the top flight. Massimiliano Allegri was still without injured defenders Andrea Barzagli and Martin Caceres, forcing him to rely on some lesser-used members of his squad. They did not disappoint, helping Juve to a 2-0 victory that extends their lead atop the standings to three points and should strengthen the belief within the camp. Over the following pages, we'll take a look at the winners and the losers from the win, looking closely at those whose impact upon the game was most keenly felt. Winner: Fernando Llorente (Juventus) After a barren start to 2014-15, Fernando Llorente finally netted for the first time this season, scoring the second Bianconeri strike of the day. Heading home an Andrea Pirlo corner, the Spanish striker ended a run of poor showings in front of goal, with his finishing touch returning after a prolonged absence. The Basque star had come in for much criticism recently, with his troubles discussed last week in this column. Allegri restored him to the starting line-up and discussed Llorente’s performance with Sky Italia shortly after the final whistle, telling the outlet (h/t Football Italia): Llorente wasn’t depressed at not scoring yet this season, but it’s normal that a goal is important for a striker, even if he likes to play for the team. This was the right game for him, both for his physical characteristics and to let Morata rest. I am happy he scored, as he repaid the faith we have in him and above all his own self-confidence. Winner: Roberto Pereyra (Juventus) This summer, the signing of Roberto Pereyra was seen as underwhelming, with this column openly questioning if he was good enough to play for Juventus. Since arriving in Turin, however, the Argentinian has excelled, turning in yet another excellent display against Palermo. Playing at wing-back in order to allow Stephan Lichtsteiner to take a well-earned break, the 23-year-old was vital in helping the Bianconeri secure victory. He stole the ball from Zouhair Feddal to spark the move which led to the home side’s opening goal, and he deserves much credit for his value to the squad. Loser: Beppe Iachini (Palermo) While there is no denying the positive impact Iachini has had since arriving at Palermo in September last year, winning the Serie B title and guiding the Rosanero back to the top flight, the 50-year-old is finding retaining that status a much more difficult task. They currently sit outside the relegation zone with just six points, and only Parma have conceded more goals so far this term. With 17 goals against them already, Palermo need to improve quickly if they are to arrest their poor run of form. “We made a few too many mistakes,” the coach told RAI Sport after the match (h/t Football Italia), and he must hope he can eradicate those errors quickly. With club President Maurizio Zamparini notoriously short on patience, Iachini could soon find his job under threat. The fixture list has been kind, however, with their matches in November and December looking much easier than those they have already played. Chievo, Udinese, Parma and Sassuolo visit Sicily in that time, and Palermo should see their form improve as a result. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Marotta: 'Inter row deplorable' Oct 26, 2014 Juventus director Beppe Marotta said Inter’s response to an Andrea Agnelli joke about Calciopoli was “deplorable.” Marotta was on RAI programme La Domenica Sportiva tonight and was asked about the ugly incident that occurred on Friday. “That statement annoyed us a lot. Agnelli replied to a question from a reporter and expressed a positive opinion on Moratti and Thohir. “He joked affectionately that Moratti did something crazy by accepting a Scudetto he didn’t win. “From that to releasing such a hard and inappropriate statement is beyond the limits. What was written on the Inter site was deplorable.” It has been reported that Massimo Moratti was also surprised by the ferocity of Inter’s statement, as he had exchanged similar jokes with Agnelli via text message. “FC Internazionale is saddened to hear that Juventus president Andrea Agnelli has once again attempted to distort the facts and change history,” read the statement. “Unfortunately for him, and for Italian football as a whole, 2006 was a disastrous year in which the Scudetto was legitimately awarded to Inter by the FIGC and Juventus were relegated to Serie B along with their reputation. “Those are the facts. We will not allow anyone to change them or act as if they did not happen.”

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JUVENTUS - PALERMO 2 - 0 Arturo Vidal (32') Fernando Llorente (64') Sunday, October 26th, 2014 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Allegri: I was right to choose Llorente The striker netted his first goal of the season to justify his coach picking him over Alvaro Morata, who impressed in midweek. Oct 26, 2014 Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri felt Fernando Llorente's first goal of the season justified his faith in the striker for Sunday’s 2-0 win over Palermo. Allegri opted to start Llorente in attack despite the availability of Alvaro Morata, who had impressed in the Champions League against Olympiacos in midweek. And that decision was vindicated as Llorente, who scored 16 times in Serie A for the club last season, added to Arturo Vidal's first-half strike with a well-taken header. That maintained Juve's unbeaten league start and restored their three-point lead over Roma at the Serie A summit. "Llorente wasn't depressed at not scoring yet this season, but it's normal that a goal is important for a striker, even if he likes to play for the team," Allegri told Sky Sport Italia afterwards. "This was the right game for him, both for his physical characteristics and to let Morata rest. I am happy he scored, as he repaid the faith we have in him and above all his own self-confidence." Allegri added: "It was a poor first half and Palermo made it difficult for us, but we increased the tempo after the break and did better." After a cagey opening, the hosts were settled by Vidal's 32nd-minute opener and went on to complete a 23rd consecutive home league win. Claudio Marchisio was another player recalled for Sunday's game, having missed the Champions League defeat to the Greeks that puts Juve's qualification for the last 16 in doubt. He told the club's official website: "It was important to win today and it's great that Nando's [Llorente] got off the mark for the season. "It was a good win against a decent Palermo side, they caused us a few problems on the counter at times." http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - PALERMO 2 - 0 Arturo Vidal (32') Fernando Llorente (64') Sunday, October 26th, 2014 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese TEAM RATINGS Oct 26, 2014 Juventus 1 Buffon - The keeper had a very quiet afternoon in the Juve net as Palermo failed to test him with a meaningful shot on target. 5 Ogbonna - The centre-back put in a strong performance to limit the effect of any runs in behind by Dybala. He was confident on the ball, too. 19 Bonucci - Made some important last-ditch challenges at the back but was never stretched too much. He looked to have picked up a knock late on but continued to play. 3 Chiellini - Regularly stepped up from the back and played penetrating vertical passes in towards the forwards which caused Palermo problems. 37 Pereyra - Showed great persistence on the right side of to win the ball back and launch the counter which led to Vidal's goal. It was his only real contribution, though. 23 ARTURO VIDAL - A very dynamic performance in midfield as he regularly made runs from deep to outnumber the Palermo defence. He netted with a composed finish in the first half. 21 Pirlo - Saw plenty of the ball but his distribution was not up to his usual standards as he played a few stray passes. He got an assist for Llorente's goal moments before being subbed. 8 Marchisio - Performed brightly in midfield and played some clever passes. He had a couple of ambitious efforts on goal that went nowhere near the target. 22 Asamoah - Was mostly used when attacking in the second half and consistently made sure of getting back into position to stop Pisano from getting forward. 10 Tévez - The Argentine held onto the ball well and attempted to draw others into the action. His powerful, quick run saw him set up Vidal for the opener. 14 Llorente - Showed some good movement in the box to make himself a target from crosses and finally got his goal with a header in the second half. Substitutes: 26 Lichtsteiner - Replaced Pereyra in the 53rd minute and offered more width on the right but not enough quality deliveries. 6 Pogba - Came on for Pirlo in the 65th minute but struggled to add an extra spark to the midfield. 12 Giovinco - Brought on for Tevez in the 80th minute and forced a couple of saves from Sorrentino as well as hitting the post! Palermo 70 S. Sorrentino - The keeper did not have many saves to make and could do little to stop Vidal finding the net before half time. 6 E. Muñoz - The Argentine was needlessly sucked across by Tevez's run in the first half and Vidal exploited the space to score the opening goal. 12 G. González - Showed a great ability to read the game, thus getting into important places to sweep up at the back with important clearances and challenges. 4 S. Anđelković - Found it difficult to cope with Tevez's movement and Llorente's height when Juve came forward and his positional awareness was not great. 3 E. Pisano - Tried his hardest to push forward down the right and get some crosses into the box but lacked the quality to beat his opponent regularly. 15 F. Bolzoni - Struggled to really make a mark on the game in midfield. He played a simple passing game but was not heavily involved in the action. 27 L. Rigoni - Worked hard in the centre of the park and tried to make himself available for the ball, however, his influence on proceedings was minimal. 8 É. Barreto - Did plenty of running in midfield to ensure his defence were screened and he was also composed when in possession. 23 Z. Feddal - The Moroccan worked hard out on the left but was unable to offer much of a contribution in attacking terms. He was not tight enough to Llorente as he netted the second. 20 F. Vázquez - The Argentine was lively in the first half, when he narrowly missed the target with a header, and linked well with Dybala at points. 9 P. Dybala - The Argentine showed some impressive technique when dribbling but was largely limited to shots from range which failed to test Buffon. Substitutes: 25 E. Maresca - Replaced Rigoni in the 74th minute and did not have time to influence things. 99 A. Belotti - Came on for Barreto in the 60th minute but failed to have a positive impact. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - PALERMO 2 - 0 Arturo Vidal (32') Fernando Llorente (64') Sunday, October 26th, 2014 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Llorente's confidence boost but Palermo win was too easy for Juve Oct 26, 2014 It would be good to say that Juventus faced stiff competition in their 2-0 win over Palermo on Sunday but the truth is the Sicilians came to Turin to avoid embarrassment rather than having a go at the champions. Showing no ambition or interest in taking hold of the ball to create their own chances, it was a one sided affair and this brings with it wider issues about the state of Serie A football and the Champions League. Italian teams are struggling in Europe's premier competition because of the type of games they are forced to play domestically, such as the one between Juventus and Palermo on Sunday. When sides like Juventus have it so easy, they are not allowed to grow into a better team as they are simply not being challenged. There is no need to push that extra bit both on a sporting and psychological level. Allowed to be slow and to expend as little energy as possible, Juventus were never troubled and were worthy winners. Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri opted to start Roberto Pereyra on the right in place of Stephan Lichtsteiner and while the Argentine could not perform the role as well as the Swiss, who bombs forward superbly to offer another dimension to the attack, he did impress. It was his determination to win the ball in the wide area that led to Juventus' first goal, passing it to Carlos Tevez who slid it to Arturo Vidal to finish. Yet the player who made the difference in the match was Claudio Marchisio, offering Juventus that bit more going forward. Against Olympiakos in midweek, Juventus demonstrated how well they create. With Andrea Pirlo in his usual place and Marchisio allowed to deliver delicious passes forward as well as forward runs to penetrate the area, it made Juve more dangerous. "Il Principino" was only allowed to play because Paul Pogba needed a rest yet his performance proved why he must always be a permanent fixture in the starting line-up alongside the rest of his midfield teammates. In the second half the Old Lady played with a little more intensity, showing a tad more determination to finish off the game. The match might have bored the rest of us but at least it allowed Fernando Llorente score his first goal of the season, repaying the faith his coach has had in him. Having continuously sacrificed his own game to play an unselfish role in the team, he deserved his goal and that may be restore some confidence. Juve's second was the eighth time Palermo have conceded from a set piece this season -- Beppe Iachini has to organise his team better and if they cannot defend effectively, they will continue to pick up unwanted defeats. Needless to say, this was an easy win for Juventus and they have given themselves a bit of room at the top (three points, to be precise) after Roma drew to Sampdoria on Saturday night. This may not have been the game they needed to help push their development along but it was one that allowed Vidal to silence his critics and Llorente to finally score. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - PALERMO 2 - 0 Arturo Vidal (32') Fernando Llorente (64') Sunday, October 26th, 2014 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Llorente Happy After Breaking His Season Duck Oct 26, 2014 Fernando Llorente was clearly delighted after Juventus’ 2-0 win over Palermo on Sunday and more specifically his role in the performance. The Spanish International was beaming after scoring his first goal of the season against the Rosanero at the Juventus Stadium. “I always had the confidence of all the coaches, I have also been suffering with back pain,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “I was not worried, because I have always helped the team while we were winning and I was happy. Of course, it is important to score and the fact that I did today has given me great joy. “It’s definitely good for the coach that Alvaro Morata is here, he can choose from many players. I think so far I’m doing a great job for the team but I did not score in the last games because my back pain was not good. Physically I’m fine now. “Roma are very strong, stronger than last year, we have to give our best in every match.” “We did not start well in the Champions League but there are two big games against Olympiacos and Malmo. If we win both games we can qualify for the next round.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - PALERMO 2 - 0 Arturo Vidal (32') Fernando Llorente (64') Sunday, October 26th, 2014 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Juventus 2-0 Palermo: Vidal and Llorente score in comfortable win After a midweek setback, a home win against relegation-threatened Palermo was a must. With goals from Arturo Vidal and Fernando Llorente Juventus did just that. Oct 26, 2014 It seems a long time since the international break, with Juventus only taking a single point from two straightforward games. The draw with Sassuolo came with caveats: it was Pirlo's first game back, the first game after an international break where Juve players were crisscrossing the globe and Sassuolo's squad holed up in training. But then came Olympiacos. The Greek champions have a good side, especially at home, but Juventus is, man for man, simply better and should be winning these games. Anyway, on to Palermo. Last year's Serie B champion, the pink-and-black side began their top-division return shipping goals by the bucketful. Talented young Argentines Paulo Dybala and Franco Vázquez have continued the growth that began in the second tier, with "El Mudo" Vázquez even leading the Capocannoniere standings at one point. For all their good work however, Palermo began the season rooted to the foot of the table, with Beppe Iachini feeling the heat as the defense was torn through time and again. A 2-1 win at Cesena, sealed with an injury-time header by Costa Rican CB Giancarlo González, finally brought the club their first win last week. Much of the blame for recent setbacks has gone to Juventus' attack, with Carlos Tévez cooling down and his strike-partner Fernando Llorente yet to get off his mark and even seeing his place in the team under threat. Palermo's weak defending proved the perfect remedy, as sloppy passing and poor set-piece defense gifted Juventus a 2-0 lead which they were never likely to relinquish. MATCH SUMMARY Juve took the kickoff in their blue second kit, but weren't able to control the game initially. Sloppy passing and an energetic Palermo prevented much of the patient passing that Allegri's Juve has been built on, and with Andrea Pirlo struggling to impose himself Palermo began the match fairly comfortably. The two sides' different interpretations of the 3-5-2 formation were very clear, with Palermo stuck in a bank of 5 with an overworked midfield barely covering the gaps, while Juventus wing-backs pushed high, took players on, and put balls into the strikers. Roberto Pereyra and Kwadwo Asamoah were very effective in this role, with the formation often resembling a 4-4-2 as the near side wing-back came upfield and the defensive line shifted across. After Bonucci and Ogbonna switched roles around the 18th minute, Andrea Pirlo began to grow into the game. Ogbonna had often found himself taking up some of Pirlo's favored positions, and with Bonucci's superior understanding of Pirlo's movements the veteran became more influential. Palermo almost immediately abandoned any kind of attacking buildup in favor of hopeful balls into an outnumbered Dybala and Vázquez. Perhaps this was a deliberate tactic, as one of the few times the Sicilians tried to pass the ball around was their undoing. Pereyra hassled Rigoni and Feddal and won the ball with Palermo's defensive line out of position, feeding Tévez who took on the back 3 and waited for support. Arturo Vidal arrived on cue, having been switched over to the left early on, to neatly sidefoot home. Following the goal Palermo were still unable to break out of their shell, with Juventus continuing to dominate and create half-chances, often through Pereyra, Asamoah, and Tévez. The second half started with Palermo finally trying to press high, and continuing to try and feed Dybala. But the visitors' high press was ineffective as their defensive line stayed deep, leaving the midfielders overworked and easily bypassed. Palermo began to get frustrated and Barreto became the first man booked on 51'. From a counter following the free kick Palermo finally found Dybala behind the defense, but his cross only found Bonucci for a good clearing header. After the 55th minute, as substitutes came on and the game slowed down, Palermo lost their will to press and Juventus' midfield runners began to lose their markers. Vidal and Marchisio had chances to grab Juventus' second. In the 63rd minute a nice bit of combination play between Llorente and Tévez was barely dealt with, but from the resulting corner Juventus found the goal. Palermo have a dreadful record defending set pieces, and so it proved again with Pirlo's near-post cross finding Llorente for an excellent header into the bottom corner. The big Basque has had a rough start to the season, but with this goal his luck might be changing. As the clock ticked down and Giovinco was brought on for Tévez, Juventus continued to create the best chances. Marchisio and Giovinco could have added to the scoreline, with the Atomic Ant repeatedly troubling the Palermo defense. There was a worrying moment late in the game as Leonardo Bonucci injured himself clearing the ball, but after treatment the defender was able to return and finish the game. The game finished 2-0, a fair description of the difference between the sides. Juventus were never troubled by the Sicilians, who backed off early and lacked ability in possession and set-piece defense. For Juventus' part the defense continued to look solid, although the passive gameplan from Palermo let the Old Lady comfortably into her stride. Andrea Pirlo began to look himself again after Ogbonna was told to get out of his way, while Marchisio and Vidal repeatedly threatened the opposition's penalty box. There will be bigger games to come for both teams, but the result was a reassuring return to form for Massimiliano Allegri's Juventus. LE PAGELLE Buffon: 6. Another day in the office for Gigi Buffon, rarely called into action but always attentive. A Dybala snapshot from range could have caught out many keepers, but not San Gigi. Ogbonna: 6. The Nigerian-Italian stopper has continued his strong start to the season and played a big role in keeping Dybala in check, although in the early part of the game he often found himself in Andrea Pirlo's way, which is never good. Bonucci: 6.5. Asked to play as the right-sided center back for most of the game, Bonucci read the game well. An excellent defensive header in the 50th minute helped maintain the clean sheet. Injured himself late, but hopefully nothing serious. Chiellini: 6. Always leading by example, the Juventus hardman put in a typical hard-as-nails performance on the left of the back three. Pereyra: 6.5. A vital contribution to the first goal, Pereyra showed he can play on the wing as well. Not troubled defensively by Feddal. Vidal: 6.5. The Chilean is back on the scoresheet, finding the net with an excellent left-footed finish. A good performance, but not quite his all-action best. Pirlo: 6. A slow start to the game brought up memories of Sassuolo and Juventus, but the playmaker seems to be finding his feet in Alleri's team. With several pinpoint passes and the cross for Llorente's goal he made a telling impact. Marchisio: 6. The versatile midfielder showed some of his best aspects today, repeatedly getting into scoring positions and perhaps unlucky to not grab a goal himself. Another hard-working performance from the Italian international. Asamoah: 6. Up and down his flank, comfortable crossing or cutting inside, and always attentive in defense, the Ghanaian showed why he should start ahead of Patrice Evra. Tévez: 7. The workhorse striker was all over the pitch today, providing a dangerous outlet whether running at or behind the Palermo defense. Assisted Vidal's goal and was constantly threatening. Llorente: 6.5. A goal! Finally the Basque striker is off his duck for the season, heading a Pirlo corner into the net. His holdup play was as reliable as ever, and the goal could be the first of many. Substitutes: Lichtsteiner: 6. Filled in comfortably on the right-side, offered running and strength but not the same creative presence as Pereyra. Pogba: 6. Brought on for Pirlo, the French midfielder played within himself and kept the game under control. Giovinco: 6.5. Only on for 10 minutes, the Italian striker ran toyed with the Sicilian backline and repeatedly threatened Sorrentino, seeing one shot denied by the post. Coach: Allegri: 6.5. Under some pressure following the Olympiacos loss, Allegri responded by moving parts to get a resilient Juventus performance and a better Pirlo. Using two very attacking wing-backs and changing roles in midfield and defense kept Palermo out of the game and played a role in the comfortable win. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111