Italy

Conte: Juve criticism unfair

Conte: Lazio no pushovers

Conte: Lazio no pushovers

Juventus' manager Antonio Conte is adamant his side can challenge on all fronts, but says Coppa Italia opponents Lazio won't be pushovers.

------------------------------------------------------------

Predict result and win big with Soccer6

------------------------------------------------------------

The 43-year-old believes his team have been unfairly criticised following their defeat to Sampdoria and after picking up just a solitary point against Parma earlier this month.

The Old Lady were sluggish following the mid-season break, but despite their blip, Conte feels they are still in contention to claim silverware this season.

"I've heard a little too much criticism this week. Certain people have spoken about a team in crisis because we weren't able to beat Sampdoria and Parma despite two good performances," Conte told reporters at a press conference.

"I'm perfectly relaxed and focus solely on what we've achieved. We're top of the table, we're in the Coppa Italia semi-finals for the second year in a row and have made it through to the last 16 of the Champions League."

The former Siena boss also discussed his side's upcoming Coppa Italia semi-final against Lazio, who he believes will provide the current Serie A leaders with a formidable challenge.

He said: "We'll face a strong Lazio side. They're compact, well-organised and will look to close down space before breaking on the counter-attack.

"However, we'll be playing with the same objective as ever: to win. I'm perfectly relaxed about this because the lads know exactly what is required of them."

The first leg of the semi-final takes place on Tuesday.

Posted: 22/01/13 10:03

Post A Comment!

Be the first to post a comment on this story


Character Count : 0/1900


Copyright © TEAMtalk Media Group 2013     Pictures from Getty Images, Backpagepix and Gallo