Socrates

Conte: I'd always give Ballon d'Or to Pirlo The Bianconeri boss refused to pick between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi for this year's award, saying only that his veteran playmaker would be a worthy winner. Nov 23, 2013 Juventus coach Antonio Conte says that he would vote for star midfielder Andrea Pirlo to win the Ballon d'Or every year given the chance. http://markting10.nl/ The prestigious individual honour has been dominated by Lionel Messi for the past four years but the in-form Cristiano Ronaldo is now thought to be the favourite for the 2013 award. However, Conte believes that Pirlo, who has never lifted the trophy, would be an even more worthy victor. http://markting10.nl/ "It is difficult to choose between Messi and Ronaldo, but I would always give the Ballon d'Or to Pirlo," the former Siena boss told Verissimo. "He is our player and may God keep him safe."

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Conte: 'No Juve alibis in Livorno' Nov 23, 2013 Antonio Conte loses Andrea Barzagli against Livorno too and tests Arturo Vidal in defence, but “it mustn’t become an alibi.” http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri travel to Livorno on Sunday afternoon. “We will encounter a very fiery atmosphere in Livorno and a stadium full of enthusiasm,” said the Coach in his Press conference. “They are a very organised team with a young Coach who already showed his talents in Serie B. We must be wary, because against Juventus the small clubs tend to play the game of their lives.” http://markting10.nl/ Conte admits his men aren’t in the best shape, as Leonardo Bonucci and Angelo Ogbonna are suspended, with Barzagli, Stephan Lichtsteiner, Mauricio Isla and Sebastian Giovinco injured. There have been reports he could even use Chilean midfielder Vidal in central defence to plug the holes. “It has been a complicated week. Some returned late from international duty and I haven’t had a chance to work with the whole squad together. We also had injuries, but these mustn’t become an alibi, as I have faith in our organisation. Vidal in defence? We did try several different options. http://markting10.nl/ “I was angry seeing some nasty things written about Barzagli. He is an exemplary professional and this injury means he probably won’t be available against Copenhagen either.” Juve are in second place, just one point shy of leaders Roma, who remain unbeaten albeit with two draws in as many games. “We are doing well in Serie A, perhaps even better than last season, but so far Roma’s form has eclipsed us. The competition is fierce this year.” http://markting10.nl/ Conte had advice for Paul Pogba, who is expected to sign a contract extension soon. “I always said he has the qualities to become a world class player, the important thing is that he keeps his head on track. I have seen many young players, especially when I was starting out, who were potentially much stronger than me, but in the end they only made it to the amateur leagues.” http://markting10.nl/ The club lost an appeal against the closing down of the Curva Sud after anti-Neapolitan chants, so for their next home match this area of the stands will be filled with children instead. “It’s a good move, though I’d be even happier to see children and ultras cheering on their team together in a civil manner. Support must be about union, not division.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa MATCH PREVIEW Nov 23, 2013 Livorno are hovering just above the relegation zone, while Juventus are looking to increase the pressure on leaders Roma. http://markting10.nl/ Having ended a winless run against Atalanta, the Amaranti were hoping to build on that result away at Inter. Yet a Francesco Bardi howler and Yuto Nagatomo’s late goal gave a lacklustre Nerazzurri maximum points and left Livorno just three points above the bottom trio. Coach Davide Nicola was pleased with the performance, only lamenting individual mistakes that led to the goals. Having faced four sides inside the top six already, he says they can be happy with their overall efforts. Nicola acknowledges they face another difficult challenge this weekend. Star striker Paulinho is suspended for one match and Alfonso De Lucia for the long term. Ruben Botta and Marco Biagianti are missing through injury. http://markting10.nl/ Juventus further reduced the gap to Roma following a 3-0 success over fellow Scudetto contenders Napoli. The Bianconeri took an early lead through Fernando Llorente, before late goals from Andrea Pirlo and Paul Pogba sealed victory. They’re just a point behind the Giallorossi and Giorgio Chiellini – a former Livorno player – believes that after four successive clean sheets, Juve are on the right path defensively. He puts their early season hiccups down to rustiness. http://markting10.nl/ However, Antonio Conte must reshuffle at the back. Leonardo Bonucci and Angelo Ogbonna are suspended and Andrea Barzagli injured. Stephen Lichtsteiner and Mauricio Isla are struggling with injury complaints, while Simone Pepe is sidelined. Arturo Vidal is ok to play after a FIFA clarification on a ruling over missing international fixtures. Their last meeting came in 2009-10, a 1-1 draw. That was the sixth stalemate between the pair, with Juventus enjoying eight victories from 16 matches. http://markting10.nl/ Keep an eye on: Innocent Emeghara (Livorno) – Hailed as a shrewd signing following his switch from fellow Tuscans Siena, the Swiss striker has struggled for goals. However, against a makeshift Juve defence, this could be the chance for Emeghara to ignite his Livorno stint. Form guide: Livorno (L L D W L) Juventus (L W W W W) Last season: Not played Stat fact: Livorno have not defeated Juventus at home since 1940-41, a 1-0 triumph. Their only other victory came two years earlier. http://markting10.nl/ LIVORNO (probable): Bardi; Coda, Rinaudo, Ceccherini; Mbaye, Luci, Emerson, Schiattarella, Gemiti; Greco; Emeghara JUVENTUS (probable): Buffon; Padoin, Caceres, Chiellini, De Ceglie; Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba; Marchisio, Tevez, Llorente http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Livorno - Juventus Preview: Bianconeri face defensive crisis Antonio Conte's men are going for five consecutive wins in Serie A but have a number of injuries and suspensions at the back with which to contend. Nov 23, 2013 Juventus will line up with a makeshift defence when they go in search of a fifth consecutive Serie A win against Livorno on Sunday. http://markting10.nl/ The Turin giants will be without Stephan Lichtsteiner (thigh), Andrea Barzagli (muscle problem), Leonardo Bonucci and Angelo Ogbonna (both suspended), while attacker Sebastian Giovinco (foot) is rated as doubtful. Midfielder Mauricio Isla (knee) is also sidelined, along with long-term absentee Simone Pepe (thigh). However, Arturo Vidal has been given clearance to play. The champions will head to the Stadio Armando Picchi looking to maintain the momentum that they built before the international break, having won their last four top-flight games without conceding a goal to draw to within a point of leaders Roma. http://markting10.nl/ Claudio Marchisio reported back from international duty fully fit and the Italy midfielder is prepared to play out of position to help solve Juve's injury crisis. "We know that we will be going there in a bit of an emergency," he told Sky Sport Italia. "However, I'm convinced that whoever steps out on to the pitch for us will give us their best in a game that won't be easy. "My role? I'm at the total disposal of the coach and I'll play wherever he needs me to play." http://markting10.nl/ Livorno have slipped to 15th in the table after winning just one of their last nine matches. Davide Nicola's side are just three points above the relegation zone and were beaten 2-0 at Inter last time out. Nicola knows that his team will be up against it when they face Juve and the Livorno coach spoke of his respect for Conte. "We're going to be facing a team that has a precise idea of what their identity is," he told Rai2. "They play at a club where the only priority is to win - so it's going to be a difficult challenge for us. http://markting10.nl/ "We're going to be playing a side that go out with a frightening intensity but we hope what we've got will be sufficient. Conte, as a coach, is absolutely excellent. We all want to be at the same level as him." Nicola will be without the suspended pair of goalkeeper Alfonso De Lucia and striker Paulinho, while Marco Benassi is struggling with a calf problem and Ruben Botta is sidelined through injury. http://markting10.nl/ Head to Head Serie A ‎- 6 Feb 2010 - Livorno 1 - 1 Juventus Serie A ‎- 19 Sep 2009 - Juventus 2 - 0 Livorno Last Five Matches LIVORNO 9 Nov 2013 - Inter 2 - 0 Livorno - Serie A 3 Nov 2013 - Livorno 1 - 0 Atalanta - Serie A 30 Oct 2013 - Livorno 3 - 3 Torino - Serie A 27 Oct 2013 - Bologna 1 - 0 Livorno - Serie A 20 Oct 2013 - Livorno 1 - 2 Sampdoria - Serie A JUVENTUS 10 Nov 2013 - Juventus 3 - 0 Napoli - Serie A 5 Nov 2013 - Juventus 2 - 2 Real Madrid - UCL 2 Nov 2013 - Parma 0 - 1 Juventus - Serie A 30 Oct 2013 - Juventus 4 - 0 Catania - Serie A 27 Oct 2013 - Juventus 2 - 0 Genoa - Serie A http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa How Juventus Will Line Up Against Livorno Nov 22, 2013 Juventus return to Serie A action this week after the international break with an encounter against newcomers Livorno. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri have recovered magnificently from back-to-back defeats to Fiorentina and Real Madrid, with a fine run of form that has seen them close the gap at the top of the table to one point, as well as turn their Champions League destiny in their favour. With such a high-quality squad, the Old Lady have many doubts and absentees through injury and suspension. Antonio Conte will definitely be without Leonardo Bonucci and Angelo Ogbonna, both of who are suspended. http://markting10.nl/ Several other players have fitness concerns, including Stephan Lichtsteiner and Simone Pepe, who have both been out for several weeks through injury. Mauricio Isla appears to have had a setback in his return to fitness and seems sure to miss out this weekend, while Claudio Marchisio is nursing a minor knock since returning from Azzurri duty. Giorgio Chiellini and Mirko Vucinic were both absent from the Napoli win before the break, and both players seem ready to return to the fold, easing Conte's concerns about his ever-decreasing options in the squad. http://markting10.nl/ It appears as if Conte may continue to experiment with the 4-3-3 that was used in both Champions League ties with Real Madrid, perhaps in preparation for their European match next week with Copenhagen. This would mean that Martin Caceres and Paolo De Ceglie would operate as full-backs, with Andrea Barzagli and the returning Chiellini completing the back four. The undroppable midfield trio of Paul Pogba, Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal will continue, no matter the formation chosen by the Mister. http://markting10.nl/ This would mean that Marchisio has an opportunity to start once more in a more advanced right-wing position, supporting in tandem with Vucinic from the left and Carlos Tevez through the centre. This, in contrast to the previous occasions that Conte used the 4-3-3, would mean a small front line, with Fernando Llorente missing out, although this could be linked to his international involvement with Spain and potential fatigue from long-haul travelling. http://markting10.nl/ If Vucinic is not quite ready to start immediately after regaining match fitness, Fabio Quagliarella would come in, shifting Tevez to the left flank. The Bianconeri will be hoping to win their fifth consecutive Serie A match and temporarily move to the top of the table, with Roma playing later in the weekend. Expected line-up: Gianluigi Buffon; Martin Caceres, Arturo Vidal, Giorgio Chiellini; Mauricio Isla, Paul Pogba, Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, Paolo De Ceglie; Carlos Tevez, Mirko Vucinic. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Juventus given clearance to play Vidal Injured for Chile's clash with Brazil on Tuesday, the midfielder could have been forced to miss the Bianconeri's encounter with Livorno, but Fifa has permitted him to play. Nov 22, 2013 Juventus have been given clearance by Fifa to play Arturo Vidal in this weekend's clash against Livorno. http://markting10.nl/ The 26-year-old Chile international missed his country's encounters with England last Friday and Brazil on Tuesday, and as a result could have been declared ineligible to play for the Bianconeri this weekend because of the 'five-day rule', which states that a player cannot feature for his club for a minimum of five days if he missed international duty through injury. Juve asked the Chile FA for special dispensation that would let Vidal play on Sunday but it refused, forcing the club to go straight to Fifa to request permission to play the midfielder. Fifa has granted the request, which is a boost to Antonio Conte's men who are contemplating playing Vidal in defence as their backline is ravaged by injuries and suspensions. http://markting10.nl/ Centre-backs Angelo Ogbonna and Leonardo Bonucci are suspended for the trip to Tuscany following the former's red card and the latter's fourth booking of the Serie A campaign against Napoli. Stephan Lichtsteiner is out and Andrea Barzagli is struggling to be fit in time for the clash as he has muscular problems, which means Vidal could slot in beside Martin Caceres and Giorgio Chiellini, who has recovered from injury. Juventus trail league leaders Roma by one point and are currently on a four-game winning run. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Preview: Livorno vs. Juventus Nov 22, 2013 Juventus could go to the top of the Serie A table if they secure all three points against Livorno on away turf this weekend. http://markting10.nl/ Antonio Conte's side are just one point adrift of leaders Roma following their 3-0 win over Napoli before the international break. The victory stretched their winning run to four, all of which resulted in clean sheets for Juve, in the Italian league, while Livorno have struggled of late. http://markting10.nl/ Davide Nicola's men have secured just one win in their last six encounters, with their latest fixture resulting in a 2-0 defeat against Inter Milan before their players went away on international duty. Out of six fixtures on home soil, Livorno have only managed to win two, while Juventus have only tasted defeat once on the road so far this season. Recent form Livorno: LLLDWL Juventus: WLWWWW Possible starting lineups Livorno: Bardi; Ceccherini, Valentini, Emerson; Gemiti, Luci, Duncan, Schiattarella, Mbaye; Siligardi; Paulinho Juventus: Buffon; Padoin, Chiellini, Peluso; Isla, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente Sports Mole says: 0-2 http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Juve must overcome the beauty of Davide Nicola's teachings Nov 22, 2013 It's been 71 years since Livorno beat Juventus in Serie A, a 3-2 final in 1942. Despite the injuries, the suspensions and the many absences, the Old Lady will be hoping to extend that record in the match against Davide Nicola's side on Sunday. http://markting10.nl/ The newly promoted side managed their promotion to the top flight largely due to their interesting blend of young talent and vital experience. While we can discuss tactics, strategies and formations, and we undoubtedly will, it's important to note that much of Livorno's success can be attributed to one man -- Davide Nicola. A tactician who started his coaching career at Lumezzane, the same club where Mario Balotelli started out his playing career, Nicola's ability to psychologically inspire his players helped him create a side that simply won't give up, despite their inferior levels of talent and experience. He deploys eleven men desperate to fight and to avoid disappointment. It is their mental strength and willingness to conquer all that saw seen them pick up the necessary points to win promotion last season. A fan of Juve boss Antonio Conte, Nicola admitted that "as a Coach, Conte is absolutely excellent. We all want to be at the same level as him." That is not simply because, in his view, Juve play with such fluidity, but because they face their challenges with enthusiasm. It is this mental fortitude and Conte's ability to motivate the squad that the current Livorno boss finds most appealing. http://markting10.nl/ A pragmatic man, Nicola focuses on teaching his students how best to cope with real-life situations, improving their capacity to make the right decision when the time comes in a match. By telling them what they ought to be looking for and how their body should respond in any given situation, he limits the level of pressure a player feels during a game. Training sessions are hard and the team is asked to focus on the attack, but remain cautious defensively. Defensive moves are practiced incessantly so that players are aware of their duties the moment they lose possession. Aware that keeping the ball is a difficult requirement in Serie A, Nicola focuses most of his training sessions on teaching his players how to move when they are without the ball, the defensive positions they must adopt and how to win back possession. While it's tedious and difficult to learn all these teachings, the tactician is aware that he must keep the training sessions fresh and fun with speeches always delivered in a colourful manner. He wants his boys to enjoy themselves. How? "On our nights off, we all go out to eat pizza together," explains the tactician who says he loves nothing more than watching his players laugh and joke together. http://markting10.nl/ On the field, Livorno were expected to play 3-4-1-2 with greater frequency this season but have opted to rely on the 3-5-2. They may struggle to keep the ball but they are effective at winning back possession. Renowned for their stamina and willingness to double up on their opponents, they boast a certain balance in their style of play and can be very tactically intelligent and fluid. Yet of course, they possess many flaws to their games and will need to be especially alert should they hope to contain Juve's attacking threat. With a somewhat fragile back-line and a weakness in dealing with anything in the air, they can be easily overcome. However, the Bianconeri would do well to stay focused for the entirety of the match against a side that does its best to please their tough coach. http://markting10.nl/ As for Juventus, they always seem to perform well under pressure. Suffering an emergency situation at the back, it seemed Conte would opt for a three man back-line consisting of Martin Caceres on the right, Giorgio Chiellini in the middle and Federico Peluso on the left. However, according to Sky Sports reports on Friday, the tactician was seen testing midfielder Arturo Vidal in defence. Could he be chosen to play alongside Caceres and Chiellini at the back? If so, then the midfield will be comprised of Simone Padoin on the right, Kwadwo Asamoah on the left and a central trio consisting of Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Pirlo and Paul Pogba. As for the attack, Carlos Tevez will take his place and will most likely be accompanied by Fabio Quagliarella. A win is necessary on Sunday and the three points are as important as those picked up against Napoli. A confidence boost will be exactly what Conte's men will be looking for before their Champions League game against Copenhagen midweek. Time to maintain the winning streak. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Marchisio: I'm slowly approaching top form The Italy international has been in and out of the Bianconeri team so far this season but he says that he is almost 100 per cent fit once again. Nov 22, 2013 Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio insists that he is slowly getting back to his best form after a frustrating spell on the sidelines at the start of the season. http://markting10.nl/ The Italy international missed the opening weeks of the 2013-14 campaign with a ligament injury, but has recently returned to Antonio Conte's starting XI. Marchisio freely admits that he is not quite performing at the peak of his powers just yet, but he is feeling stronger and fitter with each passing game. "I’m happy, the physical problem which kept me out for a month and a half is fully healed," the 27-year-old told Sky Italia. http://markting10.nl/ "The most important thing for me since returning was to regain my form and now my condition is good again things can only get better. Marchisio then went on to discuss this weekend's Serie A match against Livorno and stressed that Juventus cannot afford to take the game lightly. http://markting10.nl/ "We’ve got a tough game ahead of us, against a newly-promoted side led by a young and knowledgeable coach," he said, referring to Davide Nicola. "We’ve got a few absentees, but I’m sure that whoever plays will want to put on a good show and do well. I’m also ready to play in a different role if required, something I’ve always done over the last few years."

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Livorno rally for Luci's son Nov 22, 2013 Livorno fans are raising funds after captain Andrea Luci revealed his six-year-old son is suffering from a rare disease. http://markting10.nl/ This week the midfielder and wife Lisa learned their son has Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva, also known as Stone Man Syndrome. Mutations cause fibrous tissue, including muscles and tendons, to become solid and add bone in its place. It affects approximately one in every two million children. http://markting10.nl/ Livorno fans rushed to his aid, as this Sunday’s Serie A match against Juventus will see the Curva Nord hold a fund-raising drive for charity researching into the disease. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Giovinco a worry for Juventus Nov 22, 2013 Sebastian Giovinco is the latest Juventus player to be in doubt for the Serie A trip to Livorno this weekend. http://markting10.nl/ The Italian international trained away from the squad on Friday after reporting discomfort in his left foot. Giovinco has one goal in eight Serie A appearances this term. He’s also played in three Champions League ties. http://markting10.nl/ Juve will be without the suspended Leonardo Bonucci and Angelo Ogbonna, while Andrea Barzagli is set to miss out too. Stephan Lichtsteiner, Simone Pepe and Mauricio Isla will not feature. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Livorno will be tough, says Marchisio Nov 22, 2013 Claudio Marchisio expects his Juventus side to be tested by Livorno in Serie A on Sunday. http://markting10.nl/ “We know that we will be going there in a bit of an emergency,” the midfielder told Sky Sport Italia. “However, I’m convinced that whoever steps out on to the pitch for us will give us their best in a game that won’t be easy. “My role? I’m at the total disposal of the Coach and I’ll play wherever he needs me to play.” http://markting10.nl/ The Old Lady, just one point behind leaders Roma, will travel to the Stadio Picchi without a host of first-team regulars. Leonardo Bonucci and Angelo Ogbonna are suspended, while Andrea Barzagli remains a doubt. Stephan Lichtsteiner, Simone Pepe and Mauricio Isla will play no part in the tie. Boss Antonio Conte could opt for a 4-3-3 with Simone Padoin being used as an emergency right-back. Marchisio may play on the right of a front three. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Chiellini: Juventus need to continue excellent form The Bianconeri may have some defensive issues ahead of the Livorno clash on Sunday, but the Italy international says they need to pick up where they left off before the break. Nov 21, 2013 Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini is hoping his side can maintain their winning streak when they visit Livorno on Sunday. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri have won their last four Serie A matches, including a 3-0 victory over Napoli before the international break to narrow the gap to only one point from leaders Roma. And Chiellini is determined to keep up their impressive form whilst putting thoughts of their crucial Champions League clash with Copenhagen on Wednesday to the back of his mind. “We headed into the international break on excellent form and need to pick up where we left off," he told reporters. http://markting10.nl/ “We know about the difficulties we could run into after the break, but also the importance of not underestimating anyone and dropping points that at the end could prove decisive. “We’ve never done so and it won’t happen this time around. Just like we won’t run the risk of thinking about Copenhagen, we’ll start focusing on the Champions League from Sunday night onwards.” Antonio Conte's men have some defensive concerns, with Chiellini only making his return following muscular problems. Meanwhile, Leonardo Bonucci and Angelo Ogbonna are suspended and Andrea Barzagli is sidelined for the clash. http://markting10.nl/ However, Italy international Chiellini has played down the significance of the absence of key players in defence. “I’m good, barring any last minute hitches I’ll be available. We’ve got a few difficulties injury-wise in defence and I’m also ready to play in the middle of the back three if asked to do so," he continued. "The position’s a little different to where I usually feature, but that’s no problem as far as I’m concerned.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Vidal allowed to face Livorno Nov 21, 2013 FIFA have allowed Arturo Vidal to play for Juventus this weekend against Livorno, after missing matches for Chile. http://markting10.nl/ The midfielder pulled out of his national team’s squad for friendlies against England and Brazil last week. And after flying back to Turin to have treatment whilst he should have been on international duty, the Bianconeri have had to clear the 26-year-old's participation with the governing body. http://markting10.nl/ There is a ‘five-day rule’ within the FIFA mandate that states that a player cannot play a competitive game for his club if he’s been sent home from an international call-up. Luckily for Antonio Conte’s men though, FIFA have given Vidal the all-clear. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Chiellini boost for Juventus Nov 20, 2013 Juventus’ defensive headache for their trip to Livorno should ease with the return of Giorgio Chiellini. http://markting10.nl/ The latter has been out of action since picking up a muscle problem on the Friday before the 3-0 win over Napoli two weeks ago. Juve will travel to Tuscany without the suspended duo of Angelo Ogbonna and Leonardo Bonucci, while there is a doubt regarding the fitness of Andrea Barzagli. “There is an emergency, but I should play at the Picchi if there are no surprises before then,” stated the former Amaranto stopper. http://markting10.nl/ “I’m feeling good and I am available.” Chiellini could be asked to play in the middle of a back-three with Martin Caceres and Federico Peluso on either side. “It makes no difference for me,” stated the man who is usually used on the left of the trio. “I’m always at the disposal of boss Antonio Conte. http://markting10.nl/ “We were in great shape before the international break and now we want to start again from where we left off.” Juventus are now just one point behind leaders Roma. “We’re not thinking about top spot just yet. We are going down our path and Roma are going down theirs.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Nicola: Juve will be difficult challenge Nov 20, 2013 Livorno boss Davide Nicola has conceded that facing Juventus this weekend will be a ‘difficult challenge’. http://markting10.nl/ The promoted side host the Bianconeri on Sunday looking for the three points that could take them up to 10th in the table. But the Coach has admitted that getting three points against Antonio Conte’s side will be a tough ask. “We’re going to be facing a team that has a precise idea of what their identity is,” he told Rai2. http://markting10.nl/ “They play at a club where the only priority is to win – so it’s going to be a difficult challenge for us. “We’re going to be playing a side that go out with a frightening intensity, but we hope what we’ve got will be sufficient. “Conte, as a Coach, is absolutely excellent. We all want to be at the same level as him.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Lucescu: Shakhtar tried for Buffon Nov 20, 2013 Shakhtar Donetsk boss Mircea Lucescu has claimed that his side tried to sign Gianluigi Buffon before he renewed with the Bianconeri. http://markting10.nl/ The Italy international signed an extension with the Old Lady earlier this year, but the Romanian Coach has revealed that his team attempted to lure the shot-stopper to Ukraine. “We tried to sign Buffon,” he told Tuttosport. “But then he renewed with Juve and that was the end of that. “It would have been a superb signing for us, both on the pitch and our image off it.” http://markting10.nl/ Lucescu was effusive in his praise for the Turin club and Antonio Conte. “Juve are a very strong team. If they get out of their Champions League group this year, they can go all the way. http://markting10.nl/ “Conte’s a man I like. In the future, I’m sure the biggest teams will be after him. “I think the Scudetto will be between Juve, Napoli and Roma.”

Pogba thanks Conte for WC place Nov 20, 2013 Paul Pogba has conceded that without Antonio Conte, he would not be going to the World Cup next summer. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri youngster played in France’s 3-0 win over Ukraine on Tuesday, that saw them progress to Brazil 2014. And the former Manchester United man has admitted that it’s the Old Lady Coach who has got him into the national team. “It was a good game and a good performance from the whole team,” he told Sky Sport Italia. http://markting10.nl/ “It’s a dream for me. I am very happy. I can’t wait to go to Brazil. “I think that without Juve I would not be here with France. Conte trusted me – he put me on the pitch and gave me the time to play well.”

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Defensive emergency for Juve Nov 20, 2013 Antonio Conte’s defensive headache with Juventus has not eased, as he is unable to count on Stephan Lichtsteiner for the weekend. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri head out to Livorno on Sunday afternoon with the motivation that a win could put them top of the table before Roma play the next day. However, it is a match the Old Lady will have to face without half her squad’s defenders available. Alongside the suspended duo of Leonardo Bonucci and Angelo Ogbonna, Juve head into Week 13 with doubts over Andrea Barzagli’s availability, with a thigh complaint picked up whilst on international duty. http://markting10.nl/ The situation is now worsened with the news that Swiss full-back Lichtsteiner is not yet ready to return to the field. Continuing to work separate from the main group in training, Juventus have reported through their official website this week that the 29-year-old will not make this weekend’s trip to the Armando Picchi. http://markting10.nl/ Lichtsteiner has been out since picking up a suspected thigh injury whilst in action against Galatasaray at the start of October. Speculation for the weekend is that Juve will run with a back three of Martin Caceres, Giorgio Chiellini and Federico Peluso, with Kwadwo Asamoah and Paolo De Ceglie on the wings. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Lichtsteiner answers fan questions Nov 19, 2013 Stephan Lichtsteiner answered Juventus fan questions on Twitter, revealing his Champions League dream and friendship with Paul Pogba. http://markting10.nl/ “It is a great honour to wear this jersey, though it also weighs heavily on the shoulders because you are obliged to win,” wrote the Swiss international. “Scoring the first goal at the Juventus Stadium is a fond memory, but I’d above all like to remain in the history of Juventus for the victories rather than goals. “I’d say my best goal was the most recent, in the Italian Super Cup against Lazio. Bayern Munich were the most difficult club to play against because they have such organisation and strong players. http://markting10.nl/ “The dream I haven’t achieved yet is the Champions League. It is everyone’s dream. “My football idol was Marcos Cafu, as we play in the same position. The toughest opponents I have faced are Cristiano Ronaldo, Franck Ribery and Leo Messi, as in the one-on-one they cause huge problems.” There were also some amusing moments in the Q&A, as Lichtsteiner was asked who had the better haircut: Arturo Vidal or Pogba? http://markting10.nl/ “I’m going to be democratically Swiss here and say I couldn’t possibly choose! Of my teammates, I hang out most with Pogba and we also speak French. “What is the best thing to come from Switzerland: Chocolates, Roger Federer or watches? Federer is unique, as he did something incredible and made tennis history.” http://markting10.nl/ Lichtsteiner was also asked to rate Fabio Quagliarella’s appearance on Dancing with the Stars. “Unfortunately I haven’t seen it yet...”

6th Italian Supercup 18 August 2013

31st Scudetto 11 May 2013

Mancini would love to have Pirlo at Galatasaray Nov 19, 2013 Galatasaray boss Roberto Mancini has hinted that his side could make a move for Andrea Pirlo, whose Juventus contract is set to expire by the end of the season. http://markting10.nl/ The sides are set to do battle against each other in the Champions League in Istanbul for the last remaining group qualification spot, a game that will give the former Sampdoria striker the chance to cast his eye over the midfielder. He told Tuttosport: “Pirlo is a player who can make the difference in any teams. He is certainly a player that I would like in the team and I would struggle not to admit that.” The former Manchester City coach also warned Juventus that they can expect an intimidating atmosphere when they arrive in Istanbul for the clash but believes they are favourites to progress. http://markting10.nl/ “I think that Juventus probably have an 80% chance of going through and can go through if they get two good results but they will have to be careful coming here. “Our fans will be giving the team everything they can.”

Brawn Over Brains: Juventus Without Andrea Pirlo Nov 19, 2013 Since his arrival in Turin, Juventus are now having to deal with the same dilemma AC Milan used to: what does life after Andrea Pirlo look like? http://markting10.nl/ The Italian has been the cornerstone of the best midfield in Serie A over the last couple seasons, alongside Claudio Marchisio, Arturo Vidal, and Paul Pogba. However Pirlo is 34 years old today, slowing down and Antonio Conte has been increasingly managing his fitness over the last 18 months. In Conte’s 3-5-2, Pirlo has very much been the perfect player. As the regista (deep-lying playmaker), the entire team is build around him. He has midfield runners alongside him, with Vidal, Marchisio and Pogba. Pirlo also has flying wingbacks, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Kwadwo Assamoah, to open up the pitch and take advantage of his passing range. Since Juventus returned in Europe however, Conte has been increasingly managing Pirlo’s fitness. With the added caveat of the Champions League, it is more difficult for Pirlo to retain his best physical condition whilst playing three games a week. Every year that goes by of course, is one more year that Pirlo’s effect wanes. http://markting10.nl/ Pirlo has never been a player who ran a lot. He does not defend much either. However he has a very specific skill set that no player can match in Serie A, and probably even in the world. As such, it is always a blessing to have a player like Pirlo. On the other hand, it is also a problem when he is absent from the pitch. On numerous occasions already, Conte has deployed Pogba in his position when resting Pirlo. It is important here to discern that Conte has used Pogba in Pirlo’s position, and not Pirlo’s role. Pogba boasts of athletic gifts that Pirlo never had, but on the other hand does not have the passing range the Italian possesses. Pogba is a player that is very difficult to dispossess. He uses his size and strength to ward off players. He also has that rangy running style that allows him to break through the opposition’s midfield line. Although he is not as eagle-eyed as Pirlo, Pogba can see a pass and has a powerful long range shot as part of his arsenal as well. Conte gambles on all those attributes for Pogba to fill Pirlo’s position. http://markting10.nl/ The main difference between both is that Juventus’ team becomes a much more physical and athletic one with Pogba instead of Pirlo. That is not a fundamentally bad thing of course. In fact, for Europe, adding more physical density to one’s midfield often pays off in this era of high pressing and packed midfields. What Juventus loses is in speed of play. Carrying the ball forward is always slower than passing it up the field. What Pogba manages to do in one gut-busting run, Pirlo does with a single swing of his foot. The speed of play suffers but the incisiveness as well. Verticality is the most crucial loss. Pirlo, with one pass, can immediately turn momentum in Juventus favor by switching the play onto a running teammate in an attacking position. http://markting10.nl/ A team without Pirlo would be a much more physically imposing side. Especially with Conte’s high intensity pressing style, a midfield-three of Pogba, Vidal and Marchisio presents just as daunting a proposition. Pirlo tends to focus attentions when he is on the pitch. When so much of the play goes through him, teams target him and can thus blunt Juventus’ cutting edge. However a Juventus without Pirlo will be a team with a slower build-up play. It will be a team less able to verticalize play, and certainly not with the same instantaneity and precision as with a Pirlo on the pitch. In fact, Marco Verratti – who is a slightly different player to Pirlo still – would be the one player that could most successfully bridge the gap between Pogba’s athleticism and Pirlo’s passing range for a Juventus bound to be without its Italian maestro sooner rather than later.

Paul Pogba Tactical Focus: Why Juventus Star Is Already a Complete Midfielder Nov 19, 2013 Paul Pogba has long been talked about as one of the most prominent prospects in world football, and now he's finally starting to realise some of his incredible potential. http://markting10.nl/ He was the source of much controversy in 2009 as Manchester United poached him from Le Havre's famed academy, and already then there were suggestions he could become one of the best in the world. Instead of exposing him to the limelight of professional football, Sir Alex Ferguson tucked the then-16-year-old into the reserves to allow him to grow in his own time. He moved through the gears quickly—perhaps too quickly—and in 2012 became frustrated with the lack of first-team opportunities. He seized his chance to leave at the end of his contract, selecting Juventus from reams and reams of suitors; his talent was still abundantly obvious. http://markting10.nl/ Since moving to Turin he's flourished, and Antonio Conte has given the Frenchman what Sir Alex failed to: legitimate game time and an opportunity to win a place in the first XI. The 20-year-old we see before us is making gargantuan strides that live up to his on-field nickname (Paul the Octopus), and it seems just a matter of time before he cements his status as a world-class player. What makes Il Polpo Paul so special? http://markting10.nl/ Physical and Mental Marvel We often talk about success as if it's easy to attain, then subsequently lament players who may have been "born in the wrong era" and suggest that's the prime barrier to certain individuals' progression. Andy Carroll is an example of that, as for every part of him that replicates the battering ram figure of Duncan Ferguson, there's a part of him that clearly doesn't fit in today's possession-oriented game. Ganso could be considered another. There are also players who are born in the right era, and that's certainly been the case when it comes to Pogba's rapid ascension to Juventus' first XI. http://markting10.nl/ We're beginning to see more and more formations geared toward allowing physically excellent players to showcase their strengths. Conte's Bianconeri is a prime example, with both his 4-3-3 and his 3-5-2 systems requiring vertical drive and aggressive movements from deep. Kwadwo Asamoah was an attacking midfielder once, but now he's a fully converted left wing-back, playing in a position that allows him to use his incredible engine and vertical style to great effect. He, Mauricio Isla, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Arturo Vidal are just four of many players on the books in Turin who couldn't ask for a better tactical fit. Pogba, a physical marvel, is in the same boat. http://markting10.nl/ At just 20 he towers over most midfielders, outmuscles half of them and outthinks the rest. He's supremely confident in his own ability, and that allows him to play an expressive game without the fear of making mistakes. There's every chance that, when fully developed at 25, he'll be unmatched as a midfield engine, capable of dominating everyone in his path. His first-half performance against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League gave us a frightening glimpse of what he's capable of (even now) against the elite teams in world football. There are few more complete players in world football even at this stage in his career, and he's shown the ability to take on almost any midfield role. It's just another thing that makes him such a precocious talent, and we'll examine him in a few of these roles here. http://markting10.nl/ Pogba as a Regista At the end of September 2013, Juventus were handed the small matter of the Turin derby away from home. Andrea Pirlo was dropped to the bench in favour of a Claudio Marchisio-Vidal-Pogba midfield, with the latter in the famous "regista" role Pirlo has made his own over the last decade and a bit. The regista will control everything from deep in midfield, dictate tempo and fire off inch-perfect passes to every corner of the pitch. He's the heartbeat of the side, and if he doesn't play well, the entire team will struggle. http://markting10.nl/ To put Pogba, at 20, in this role in the bitter Derby della Molle was some sign of faith from Conte, and the Frenchman went on to display his obvious strengths and talents throughout. He ended up scoring the sole goal of the game, a headed winner, but it was his performance throughout that impressed more. His passing isn't on the same level as Pirlo, but the confidence exuded in controlling proceedings was astonishing. http://markting10.nl/ He sat in front of the defensive line, fired off vertical passes and provided an excellent shield for Giorgio Chiellini and co. Pirlo is an underrated tackler, but Pogba trumps him even at this stage; he has the mobility and footballing IQ to sense danger early and quell it, allowing La Vecchia Signora to build sustained periods of pressure. Pogba finished the game with one goal, one interception, six tackles and 63 touches of the ball, according to WhoScored.com. http://markting10.nl/ Pogba as a Shuttler It's not in Conte's remit to exclude Pirlo at this stage, but there is an obvious intent to marginalise his importance to the side given the fact his contract expires at the end of the current season. Whether that means grooming Pogba to be Juve's next full-time regista, bringing back Luca Marrone or changing the style, we can't say just yet, but it would be foolish not to utilise Pirlo's excellence for one final campaign. That's meant Pogba and Pirlo on the pitch together plenty of times already this season, with the former moving into a box-to-box (or "shuttling") role while the latter resumes his mantle as chief playmaker. http://markting10.nl/ Opinion will be divided, but this is the role we believe to be his best: a box-to-box responsibility that allows him to extend those long loping legs and utilise his powerful frame in one-v-one situations. His dribbling is getting stronger, he's winning more take-ons and he's lethal when he spots a pocket of space to leap into. That said, he doesn't neglect his positional duties either, and his work rate for both Juve and France remains extremely high. http://markting10.nl/ The 3-0 victory over Napoli, in which he scored a spectacular third, is perhaps the flagship game of his career so far, as with Pirlo pulling the strings from deep, Pogba was able to dart into space from a defensive position and force the Partenopei onto the back foot. He can do it from deep and run straight at you—which is terrifying—or in advanced positions to craft shooting opportunities. His strike that beat Pepe Reina against Napoli was beyond sublime. http://markting10.nl/ Looking Forward It appears Conte is giving serious thought toward a full-time switch to a 4-3-3 formation, abandoning the 3-5-2 but for the odd occasion. The latter system has failed miserably in the Champions League (where the club is bottom of Group B with two matchdays remaining), and Juve will soon be at a stage whereby deep runs in that competition will be required to keep Pogba at the club. Either one suits Pogba down to ground; such is his incredible versatility and status as a near-complete midfielder. He can pass, shoot, dribble, tackle, intercept and head; he can do everything there is to do already. http://markting10.nl/ His best form appears to come in a box-to-box role, and there are legitimate fears that grooming the Frenchman as a regista will waste his incredible athleticism and surging ability. For him to reach the top of the game he needs to be unleashed, and Conte needs to make some vital decisions this summer when it comes to how his XI will shape up. Pogba will excel regardless, and it's a matter of whether he becomes a great player or one of the best this game has ever seen. Conte's use of him, even at this stage, will impact his eventual fate.