31 July 2008

First training session in England

Juventus carried out their first intense training session on English soil. The Bianconeri entered the Grove Hotel pitch at 5.30 pm yesterday (6.30 pm in Italy) and took part in a tough session: after warm-up with the ball and fitness training, they carried out exercises to refine technique, particularly focused on defending. Finally Ranieri imparted tactical lessons before the training match. Salihamidzic and Pasquato worked separately, while Cristiano Zanetti trained in the swimming pool.

The squad is close-knit and focused on preparing the Emirates Cup games and the friendly against Manchester United, prestigious steps towards the Champions preliminaries. It is obvious everyone wants to reach the first aim of the season, and then go on to win something and, in Vincenzo Iaquinta's case, take revenge against the bad luck spell that hit him near the end of last season: «I was unlucky last year – the striker explained – I had a few injuries, the last of which prevented me from taking part in the European Championships. I've started off well now, maybe even better than last year. I'm physically fine and mentally I'm really motivated too. We're going to play some great games against prestigious opponents and facing them with the black and white strip is important for a player, because you feel stronger and more confident just by knowing you're playing for Juventus».