Andrea Barzagli continued his impressive form by marshalling the Bianconeri defence to a goalless draw in Udine. The former Wolfsburg man has been an inspiration so far this season, and took heart from a job well done in Udine.

Barzagli began: “We wanted to show a good performance, but this game was based on tactics and both sides cancelled each other out. Perhaps we dealt with the ball better, but the draw is fair.”

Tonight saw Conte alter his system, with the defender slotting comfortably into his new role: “We’ve already played with three defenders, it’s not something new. We knew that Udinese could pose a threat on the counter, but we covered the danger without taking risks. In the first half, we also had a couple of interesting chances in forward positions. We had more difficulties in the second half, but the result and point gained from Udine are absolutely fair.”

Juventus will go into 2011 as joint leaders with Milan. The Bianconeri’s revival has been founded on a new mentality. “We must keep it in the New Year as well,” concluded the defender. “We’re doing extraordinary things, we’re deserved leaders of the table, and we don’t want to give in. Since pre-season, we’ve become a real team. A strong, tough side which always battles without losing or giving up, even in the most difficult games.”