27 November 2014
It was his third game in a row and, as ever, he put his lungs and his heart into every stride and every pass. 38 passes to be precise. All of which reached their intended target. Mr Reliable.
Speaking to the media after Juve's Champions League success over Malmo, Simone Padoin explained: “We knew it wasn't going to be easy tonight. In the opening period we struggled a bit to deal with all the long balls and their constant pressing, but they started to wane after the break and that's when we came into it more. Juventus looked a different side then and we should have scored more than we did.”
When his 100% pass completion rate was brought up, he stated modestly: “I kept it fairly simple.”
The 30-year-old went on: “It was a bit easier for us in the second half. We were in control of proceedings and fashioned lots of chances but it still wasn't easy by any means.”
Four years after joining the club, Simone can always be relied on to produce the goods whenever he's called upon. In Sweden this evening he started his third game running and continued to impress, despite playing in an unfamiliar role.
“It all came as a bit of a surprise really,” he admitted. “I'm happy though. The gaffer has decided to go with me at left-back and I'm putting my all into it. I'm twice as happy when I'm able to contribute to a victory.”
