Juventus - Bribes, Scandal and Match-fixing - The afterthought and the new era

[sherm]

4th place side Fiorentina were the next visitors to Olimpico, and Nick knew of the dangers that they posed, particularly with Luca Toni up-front. He put his strongest available team out, and told them that he wanted them to do it for the fans. In the first half both teams were attacking, playing free flowing and stylish football, but neither one could find the net in the first 45 minutes. The best chances fell to Del Piero and Dagoberto for Juve and Toni for Fiorentina, although the sides went in goalless at the interval. It wasn't long after half time though that the first goal of the game was scored, Dagoberto beating his marker to the ball and lofting the ball over the keeper just two minutes into the half, which was a goal that would turn out to be the winner. Both sides still created chances, Dagoberto could have completed his hat-trick, and Luca Toni could have had a brace, but in the 69th minute the game changed, Giuliano Giannichedda being sent off for a second bookable offence, which meant Nick had to change his formation. It was 11 minutes later that another red card was produced, this one for Luca Toni, who was frustrated and aimed a kick at Younes Kaboul. The referee spotted it, and produced the red card, reducing both teams to ten men at the final whistle. Juventus managed to hold on to claim the 1-0 win, and move back into 2nd, although Milan were due to play the next day, so they could be back down to third, but they had to keep up their home record, but with a tough home game against Inter up next, Nick knew it was vital his team did as well in that as they could.

The Inter game would turn out to be the best performance from Nick's side, due to the circumstances, and he was delighted that they were able to produce such a good performance. Inter took the lead though, in the 28th minute, a defensive mistake from Igor Tudor allowed Zlatan Ibrahimovic to square the ball across the box for Patrick Vieira to finish it off. Before that, Juve had been the better side, creating several good chances and hitting the post, so the Inter goal could be classed as being against the run of play. After the Inter goal, Juve were still the better side, and should have at least gone in at half time on level terms, maybe even ahead, but as it happened they were unable to find the equaliser. The second half was a different story, 5 minutes in Dagoberto picking the ball up 25 yards out, turning his marker Maicon and curling the ball home from just inside the area. Juve were pressing constantly after this, and it was a defensive mistake from the Inter keeper, his kick landing at the feet of Matteo Paro who hit it straight back over his head, and from 50 yards putting his side 2-1 in front. Despite Inter's pressure, and their attacking prowess up front, Nick's side held on for a 2-1 win and a hell of a result, taking them level on points with the leaders they ahd just defeated. Another home game was to finish the month off, and this saw the visit of Ascoli, who were sitting down in 14th place. This was a game that Nick expected his team to win with ease, especially after such a good performance against Inter. As it was, it was one of those strange occurrences that tend to happen in football, Ascoli pulling off an amazing 1-0 win, even though they had 3 shots on goal. The goal came on 7 minutes, Sharbel Touma using his biggest asset, his pace, and beating the defence before hitting the ball across Buffon. Juventus dominated from this point on, having an amazing 26 shots on goal, but the Ascoli keeper had the best game of his life, keeping everything that was thrown at him out of his goal. Del Piero, Dagoberto, Paro and Olivera all missing good chances to put their team level, and Ascoli came away with an unlikely 1-0 win, which saw Juve down to third place in the league, still a good position for a newly promoted side, and Nick couldn't fault his side too much.

February 2008 Summary

(Serie A unless stated, Juventus scorers listed only)

Juventus 3-1 Sampdoria Olivera (56) Dagoberto (57) Tudor (69)

Roma 3-2 Juventus Del Piero (1,45)

Juventus 1-0 Fiorentina Dagoberto (47) Giannichedda s/o (69)

Juventus 2-1 Inter Milan Dagoberto (50) Paro (71)

Juventus 0-1 Ascoli

League Position : 3rd

[sherm]

March started with an away trip to Parma, who had been thumped 5-0 on their previous meeting against Nick's side, and Nick was confident that they could pick up another three points against them. Ruben Olivera had picked up a virus, and was therefore unavailable for the match, meaning Kevin Larsen stepped into the match on the left wing. Dagoberto regained his place, despite Valeri Bojinov returning to full training, and Palladino took Del Piero's place as his strike partner. It was Palladino who set-up the first goal, feeding the ball through for Dagoberto to flick the ball round the keeper with the outside of his right foot and put his side in front. It was only 4 minutes later that the lead was doubled, Kevin Larsen cutting inside the defender and firing across the keeper into the far corner of the net. No more goals came in the match, although Juve and Parma both had good chances to score more goals, the best chances of the game falling to Dagoberto and Matteo Paro in particular, but neither side was able to find the net and Juventus ran out comfortable 2-0 winners, and completing the double over Parma. A visit to Siena was next, and it was another game that Nick expected his side to win comfortably. After ten minutes, it looked like that was going to happen, Nick's side cruising into a two goal lead, with goals from Ruben Olivera and Mauro Camoranesi. Nick's side shoul have take advantage and hammered it home, winning by 3 or 4, but instead they took their foot off the gas, and somehow lost the match 3-2, a Bogdani hat-trick sealing an unlikely victory for Siena. Nick was extremely unhappy with his players, and told them as much in the dressing room afterwards, it was a defeat that should not have been, especially after being two goals in front.

After the disappointing defeat to Siena, Nick wanted his side to make up for it by picking up maximum points in their next three games. A home game against Messina was a perfect opportunity to get back on track, and Nick wanted his side to really make this opportunity count. They came out and from the first whistle to the last whistle they were dominant, having 23 shots to Messina's 4, but once again they were unable to make the most of it, only managing to come away from Olimpico with a point. It took 65 minutes for the scoring to be opened, Valeri Bojinov racing through the defence and slotting the ball home underneath the keeper to score on his return to the side. Juve should have had 3 or 4 more before the Messina equaliser, and for the second successive game, Juve conceded a goal in the final 5 minutes of the game, and a draw was not what Nick wanted. His side were still sitting in third, and although he felt that the title was just out of reach Nick was confident second place was possible, as long as they picked up their performances.

[sherm]

An away trip to Napoli was to follow, and once again Juve failed to capitalise on their chances, only coming away with yet another point. After Del Piero gave them the lead in the 8th minute, heading home Camoranesi's cross, it should have been game over and Napoli should have been dead and buried, but as it was Christian Bucchi's 54th minute equaliser was enough to send them away with a point. Bojinov missed 3 good chances before getting injured, and Del Piero missed 2 good chances, as well as Gabi missing a sitter from 8 yards out. It was a disappointing result yet again for Nick and his team, and if this carried on then they would fall away out of the top 4, which is where Nick wanted to be, in the promised land and Champions League competition next season. Bojinov's injury came as a big blow for Nick, as it would see him ruled out for the rest of the season, meaning Dagoberto would have to fill the gap that Bojinov's absence left. The bottom placed side Empoli visited Olimpico for the final game of the month, and for the 4th game on the trot Juve were terrible. This was the worst performance of Nick's tenure easily, as not only did no goals go in but no chances were created. It was obvious Empoli had come for the point, but Juve could not find a way past them. It took something special, a 30 yard shot from Gabi hitting the inside of the post and finding the back of the net in the 90th minute to keep his side third in the table and on course for that Champions League place.

March 2008 Summary

(Serie A unless stated, Juventus scorers listed only)

Parma 0-2 Juventus Dagoberto (11) Larsen (15)

Siena 3-2 Juventus Olivera (4) Camoranesi (10)

Juventus 1-1 Messina Bojinov (65)

Napoli 1-1 Juventus Del Piero (8)

Juventus 1-0 Empoli Gabi (90)

League Position : 3rd

[sherm]

With 8 games left in the season it was vital that Nick got his side really firing on all cylinders, and a home game against Lazio was the first game for them to do this. It would not be easy, as Lazio had started to hit a bit of form recently, and Nick knew his side had been a little bit inconsistent of late. They started the game well though, Del Piero and Gabi both missing good chances to put Juve in front. Camoranesi had been causing the Lazio full-backs all sorts of problems throughout the game, and it was his cross that set up the opening goal, firing a low ball across the box for Gabi to slot home into the far corner to give his side a 1-0 lead. This lead went through to half-time, and the second half was much of the same, Juve dominating the match, and they got their rewards on 73 minutes, Mauro Camoranesi cutting inside the defence before firing home into the top corner. Juve could have had at least 3 or 4 more before the end of the match, Gabi and Del Piero missing guilt-edged opportunities. Lazio were reduced to ten men in the final ten minutes, Juan Sebastian Veron dismissed for lashing out in frustration at Camoranesi, but all in all Nick was happy with his sides performance, and another three points to add to the tally. After this, an away trip to Torino was up next, and once again it was a difficult game. Torino, 4th last season, and sitting in 5th this year, had been the perennial overachievers of the Serie A, and their home record was nothing short of superb. Juve started well yet again, but Torino also started just as well, but it was Juve that took the lead on 29 minutes, Gabi scoring his third goal in as many games, and he seemed intent on proving to Nick that the £4.2million investment he had made was worth every penny. He could have had another goal before the interval, and Juventus should have gone in more than 1 goal ahead, but it didn't make too much difference as the game was sealed in the 70th minute, Dagoberto running onto the loose defensive clearance and slotting the ball home underneath the keeper to seal the game for his side.

Games against Genoa and Milan were the final two games of the month, and if Nick's side could win one of the final two games then they would almost be assured of a Champions League spot. Genoa came out and seemed determined to be the team who stopped that. They were at home and had their fans, the twelfth man behind them, and they came out and started the better of the two teams, having three good chances in the first 15 minutes, but it wasn't until the 34th minute that they took a deserved lead, Luciano Figueroa crossing the ball and Igor Tudor deflecting the ball into his own net. This was a good thing really, as it seemed to wake Nick's side up, and they were stung into life, and played a lot better after this. They did go in at half time behind, but it was only 5 minutes into the second half that they drew level, Andrea Gasbarroni curling home a 25 yard effort. Both sides were pushing for the winner after this, and they both came close, Dagoberto hitting a post and Figueroa having a shot cleared off the line. Neither side could find the breakthrough, and they both had to settled for a point each, which kept Juve in third. Milan visited the Olimpico for the final match of April, and they were the team in 2nd that Juve were chasing, and last years Champions. As it turned out, this was Juve's first goalless draw for a year, since the match against Rimini last April, and it wasn't the best game to watch for the fans. There were only 3 or 4 decent chances in the entire 90 minutes, Ricardo Oliveira and Fernando Torres for Milan and Dagoberto and Del Piero missing Juve's best chances. The 0-0 draw kept both sides in their respective positions, and left them both just a win away from Champions League qualification.

April 2008 Summary

(Serie A unless stated, Juventus scorers listed only)

Juventus 2-0 Lazio Gabi (27) Camoranesi (73)

Torino 0-2 Juventus Gabi (29) Dagoberto (70)

Genoa 1-1 Juventus Gasbarroni (50)

Juventus 0-0 A.C Milan

League Position : 3rd

[sherm]

Nick knew that his team needed to be at their best in the final 4 games of the season, and he also knew that 2 wins would secure a top 4 place. The first chance to get one of these wins was an away trip to Palermo, and it turned out to be a comfortable 3-0 win, the goals coming from Camoranesi and two from Gabi, who had suddenly started to find his scoring boots. Camoranesi headed home an Olivera cross after 10 minutes, and Gabi's first goal was a 20 yard effort after receiving Camoranesi's pass three minutes before half time, His 2nd, and the teams third, came on 81 minutes, Gabi racing through the defence to slot the ball home past the onrushing keeper to secure a simple three points for his side. Palermo's cause was not helped by the fact they were reduced to 8 men by the final whistle, Pedro Leon seeing red for an elbow on 48 minutes, Amauri's second bookable offence giving him his marching orders after 72 minutes and Zaccardo's frustration showing, a headbutt on Dagoberto seeing him dismissed on 84 minutes. The win was comfortable, and a win in the next match against Atalanta would see Juve gain a Champions League place for certain. The Atalanta game would prove to be another comfortable victory, this time by 2 goals to nil, the goals both coming in the second half, Daniel Sturridge using his pace to beat the defence after an hour and slot underneath the keeper, and Giuliano Giannichedda sealing the points in stoppage time with a header from Camoranesi's cross. This secured a top 4 spot for Nick and his side, a terrific performance considering it was their first season back in the top flight.

A trip to Chievo was the agenda for the penultimate game of the campaign, and for some unknown reason Nick saw his players get outclassed in every department. They were second to every loose ball, they were beaten to 90% of balls in the air and Chievo were passing the ball around like Juve were not there. Nick couldn't believe what he was watching. Chievo took the lead after 28 minutes, a loose ball being won in midfield and played through for the Chievo striker to slide underneath Marcelo Grohe. The second was scored right on half time, the same attacker capitalising on a defensive mistake and placing the ball inside the far post to send his team in at the break 2-0 up. The next goal did come from Juventus, although they had left it late, Giannichedda curling a free-kick home from the edge of the area. There was still time for one more goal, Chievo breaking straight from the kick-off and scoring a third goal, yet again from poor defending, to secure a surprising win and three points for their own European push. The final game saw Udinese visit Olimpico, and fortunately the team played a lot better than in the previous game, this time winning the game 3-1. Giannichedda opened the scoring with his third goal in as many games, hitting the ball from the edge of the 6 yard box and putting his side in front on 36 minutes. Dagoberto doubled that lead on the stroke of half time, racing through before finishing brilliantly from a tight angle to give his side a two goal lead at half time. Dagoberto sealed the three points 6 minutes after half time, curling home a free-kick from 20 yards to score his teams third goal and secure a final day win. Udinese had time for one goal, Gyan Asamoah heading home from a cross, but Nick was happy with a 3-1 win, and on the whole a very successful season in Serie A

May 2008 Summary

(Serie A unless stated, Juventus scorers listed only)

Palermo 0-3 Juventus Camoranesi (10) Gabi (42,81)

Juventus 2-0 Atalanta Sturridge (60) Giannichedda (90)

Chievo 3-1 Juventus Giannichedda (88)

Juventus 3-1 Udinese Giannichedda (36) Dagoberto (45,51)

League Position : 3rd

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

PL W D L GD PTS

1. Inter Milan 38 29 2 7 +66 89

2. A.C Milan 38 21 14 3 +37 77

3. JUVENTUS 38 22 9 7 +28 75

4. Fiorentina 38 22 8 8 +35 74

5. Torino 38 17 14 7 +13 65

6. Roma 38 17 13 8 +13 64

</pre>

[sherm]

After a successful first season in Serie A for him and his side, Nick felt that they were capable of more, and especially a stronger title push next season. He knew that he would need some more players though, and that they would have to be top quality and fit into the team easily, so he sent his scouts out to scour the market and make a list of some players that would be good enough for the Juve team. Nick also felt that some of the current crop of players were not good enough to stay in the squad, and the wage bill needed trimming so he wanted to get rid of some of the deadwood. There were some youngsters Nick wanted to try out next season, in particular Daniel Sturridge, as he felt that the only way to get them experience is by putting them in the first team limelight and letting them taste the first team opportunities, so he didn't have a problem with throwing the young Englishman into the squad. After assessing the squad, and their record over the last two seasons, he made his notes on the team and had his opinions on who he felt was good enough to remain in the squad.

Juventus Squad Statistics

(Both seasons 2006/07 and 2007/08)

Gianluigi Buffon, GK - 88 apps, 48 cln, 7.34 Avg.

Gianluigi has been my number one for the last two seasons, and he will be for a few years. He is still Italy's number one and has over 1 clean sheet every 2 games. He will still be my number one in the coming season

Marcelo Grohe, GK - 7(1) apps, 2 cln, 6.92 Avg.

Marcelo has been my back-up 'keeper but hasn't complained once. He hasn't whined, groaned or moaned, but he definately has a big future in the game. He will be my replacement for Buffon in a few years

Jonathan Zebina, DRC,WBR - 77(3) apps, 2 gls, 7.12 avg.

Jonathan has been superb at right back, and his obvious quality has shone through. He has been good in both defence and attack, and chipped in with some timely assists. Will be first choice right back again next season

Jelle Van Damme, DLC,WBL - 9 apps, 0 gls, 7.00 avg.

Jelle was signed for a nominal fee from Anderlecht in the January Transfer window, and his job was to provide cover at left back and at centre back, both of which he has done admirably. He has been consistent and has done a terrific job of stepping into the team when needed

Jean Alain Boumsong, DC - 70(3) apps, 0 gls, 7.09 avg.

Jean Alain had his critics at Newcastle, but he has been teriffic for me, and not one complaint from me. He has been superb at centre back and has shown his true colours to the team

Didier Digard, DC,DM - 10(6) apps, 0 gls, 6.75 avg.

Dider came on loan from Ascoli as cover at the back, and he did really well when he had to step in. He is still young and has a big future in the game at both club and international level. Would love to have signed him permanently but is just not possible at this moment in time

Younes Kaboul, DC,DM - 80 apps, 3 gls, 7.19 avg.

Younes was my first big money signing, £4 million, and it was money well spent in my estimation. He is a big, strong powerful lad and stands well over 6 feet tall. His heading ability is second to none and I am delighted to have his talent at my disposal. Will be vital in our future successes

Igor Tudor, DC,DM - 30(21) apps, 4 gls, 6.83 avg.

Igor's experience and kno how has come in handy over the last two seasons, and although he has proved to be an able back-up I dont think he will play much of a part next season. Has been vital to our success

Kevin Larsen, D/AML - 30(4) apps, 4 gls, 7.28 avg.

Kevin has been the surprise of the squad for me. I signed him as a back-up player and he has ascended himself into a possible starting role with his exceptional performances when he has stepped into the team. He has also chipped in with some vital goals too

Florian Kringe, WBRL,DM - 15(9) apps, 0 gls, 6.60 avg.

Florian isn't happy at the moment, he feels he should be playing more of a role in the team, but I see him as nothing more than a back-up player. He has been a good player when he has needed to step in but won't play much of a part next season

[sherm]

Giuliano Giannichedda, DM - 48(15) apps, 6 gls, 7.08 avg.

Giuliano has been a stalwart for me in my two seasons in charge, and he will be for a little while yet. He has experience in abundance and has also chipped in with some goals and assists over the last couple of seasons, and he will be a member of the squad come next season

Mario Suarez, DM - 5(3) apps, 0 gls, 7.00

Mario was signed on a season long loan and although he hasn't played much of a part his contribution will be remebered, and I will be grateful for his back-up. In the 8 games he played he did well, helping the team by doing the job I signed him to do

Matteo Paro, DM - 49(12) apps, 4 gls, 7.06 avg.

Matteo has been terrific in the centre of midfield, and his creativity and defensive abilities have both been vital in our promotion push and then the third placed finish this season. There has been interest from other clubs, but I don't think I will sell him unless I receive a good offer

Gabi, MC - 44(4) apps, 8 gls, 7.20 avg.

I originally signed Gabi on loan in January 2007, but his performances were so goos I signed him for the next season. He was once again impressive, and I agreed a fee of just over £4 million to bring him to the club permanently. His goals from midfield have been crucial, and he has been one of the most consistent performers of the side

Mauro Camoranesi, AMR - 71 apps, 9 gls, 7.47 avg.

Mauro has been my best player over the two seasons, making 34 goals and scoring 9 himself. He has been superb on the right wing, and is still a regular in the Italian national side. Will be a vital player for several years to come yet

Andrea Gasbarroni, AMRLC - 11(7) apps, 2 gls, 6.94 avg.

Having spent all of our Serie B title winning campaign out on loan, he was recalled to the first team squad as a squad player for this season. He has provided good cover all scross the midfield, and will stay as cover next season due to his versatility and ability to play anywhere across the midfield

Marco Marchionni, AMR - 19(10) apps, 1 gls, 6.95 avg.

Although my backroom staff rate him highly, I haven't seen much from Marco that has convinced me he is good enough to remain at the club. If a suitable offer comes in I will offload him to another club. Did a good job in his 29 appearances but nothing spectacular

Ruben Olivera, AMRLC - 31 apps, 3 gls, 7.26 avg.

Ruben exceeded all of my expectations this season, as he was brilliant on the left wing, laying on 14 goals for his team-mates. He dpent the first season on loan at Sampdoria but he has established himself as a vital member of the team and will be here for a few years yet

Rafaelle Palladino, AML,ST - 18(17) apps, 6 gls, 6.94 avg.

Rafaelle has been back-up throughout the two seasons but has never once complained. He has knuckled down and worked hard for the team, and when he has stepped into the side he has put 100% effort in. He is a useful player, so I will look to keep him around as a back-up player

Alessandro Del Piero, AMLC,FC - 63(14) apps, 41 gls, 7.08 avg.

Alessandro has been a great player throughout his career, and in my two seasons so far in Italy he has been excellent, but I think it is time for younger players to step up to the plate. His 41 goals have proved vital, although his old legs seemed to slow him down in Serie A, but he will be recognised for his achievements

Valeri Bojinov, ST - 48(18) apps, 41 gls, 7.08 avg.

This was Valeri's first season as a fully fledged Juventus player, and boy was he worth the money I paid for Fiorentina's 50%. He has scored 41 goals in 66 Juve appearances, a superb record by any standards, and he is still only 24 too. He has a great future ahead of him and will be a major part of the team in the future seasons

Dagoberto, AM/FC - 40(20) apps, 22 gls, 7.04 avg.

Signed for £1.4 million from Atletico Paraneanse in 2006, Dagoberto has proved to be a super player. He has scored some vital goals at vital times and chipped in with assists. He has formed good partnerships with all the strikers, and I am delighted to have him around the club. He will hopefully be here for a few years yet

Roberto Batres, AM/FC - 5(4) apps, 0 gls, 6.78 avg.

Roberto was disappointing and didn't have the impact I expected when I brought him in on loan. He looked out of his depth in the games that he played, and I am disappointed he didn't fire on all cylinders. I do still believe he has great potential though

Daniel Sturridge, ST - 6 apps, 3 gls, 7.25 avg.

Daniel has shown lots of promise in his relatively short career so far, and I will ecpose him to the rigours of first team football more often next season, and I believe he will be one of the worlds best in a few years. He is labelled the 'next Gary Lineker' by the press, and if he lives up to that I will be happy

Christian Vieri, ST - 8(5) apps, 4 gls, 6.92 avg.

After a season in which he provided an able back-up, Christian decided to call it a day and hang up his boots at the age of 34. He did well in the 13 appearances he made, and I will be grateful for his contributions. Has had a long and glittering career, so will retire with his head held high

[sherm]

Nick had really scoured the Transfer market long and hard, and once he had an idea of who to make bids for he set about making those bids. Although the club had qualified for a Champions League spot, and this would be bringing in a lot of revenue and T.V money, Nick didn't want to go mad in the spending. He had worked hard to cut the wage bill and get the club back into the black, so he wasn't prepared to ruin all that hard work. He had looked for players whose contract's were expiring soon, and had really seen some prospects he liked the look of. On his list of priorities were a striker, a central defender and a goalkeeper, and there were players in all these positions that Nick felt would provide good cover and could do a job in the first team. All in all he made offers for 6 players whose contracts were soon expiring, and all he could do was wait for replies. He had also contacted Mallorca about buying their centre back Francisco Pavon, a man who had experience and had been at Real Madrid a few years back. He had played in big games (and won) Champions League, League titles and Spanish Cups, and he was getting a regular starting berth at Mallorca, but he felt like a fresh challenge. His club didn't stand in his way too much, and after accepting a £2.9 million offer from Nick, he was free to discuss terms. What he saw at the club was enough to convince him, and he was happy to sign on the dotted line to seal his move to Italy. He would arrive at the start of the Transfer window on July 1st, just over a month's time, and Nick was delighted to have captured such a talented defender.

During the course of the next two weeks, Nick was a very busy man. He had secured deals with 5 of the 6 out of contract players he had wanted, Lassana Diarra the only one to snub Juventus, opting for a move to League Champions Inter Milan instead, but Nick felt he had some really good talent at his disposal. Wayne Bridge had signed from Chelsea, and he was an exceptional left back who would easily slot into the left back role. He had pace, and could bomb forward without hesitation, but his defensive abilities were also exceptional, and Nick was delighted to beat a whole host of clubs to his signature. Three other players had been signed from English clubs, two from Arsenal and one from Liverpool. Godwin Antwi was the Liverpool man Nick signed, and he had received a glowing report from chief scout Ciro Ferrara, who touted him as one for the future. He was another big, strong lad, and his heading ability was frighteningly good. He would start in the under 20's but Nick was sure he would work his way up. The two player's that agreed moves from Arsenal were also for the future, and both were terrific prospects. Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny was 18, and at 6'3 had a hell of a stature about him. He seemed to be able to pluck balls from nowhere and his kicking and throwing ability was second to none. The other player from Arsenal was another youngster, Danish striker Nicklas Bendtner. Not only was he one for the future, but Nick felt he could step up and compete for a place in the first team too. He was a quick lad, with some real speed about him, and his finishing was some of the best Nick had seen from a young player. He wasn't brilliant in the air, but his positioning and his anticipation were excellent. Nick was very happy with his new additions to the squad, although he still felt another top-class striker was needed to replace Del Piero and partner Bojinov. This is what he instructed his scouts to look for, and sent them off to all parts of the world in search of another 20 goal a season target man.

[sherm]

Nick had managed to arrange 6 friendly matches, and he felt that they would provide a mixed set of opposition and give the team a good test before the season starts. The only thing that Nick was concerned about was the fact that with the Champions League games and Serie A games the team would be playing more games than they were used to, so a rotation system may need to be employed for the lesser games in all competitions. He was confident however that the team would cope and would show their real potential. The new signings were really starting to gel together, and Bendtner looked a really good striker, and his finishing ability was close to Valeri Bojinov's level at the moment. Unless Nick could manage to get another striker in before the start of the season he would be looking at Bendtner starting up-front with Bojinov come the opening game of the campaign. His scouts had given him some feedback on strikers so far, and they had come back with a few options, but so far only two had really caught Nick's eye. They were both playing their trade in Argentina at River Plate, and were both young players. Gonzalo Higuain was a young Frenchman, who could play up-front of in midfield behind the front two, and his record for River had been good for the last two seasons. The other option was a Colombian striker, Falcao, who was another young player but this time he was an out and out striker, and would make a very useful target man to support the speed of Bojinov. Nick was more inclined to go for Higuain, for the simple reason that Falcao was a Non-EU player, and Nick had his eye on another foreign player, and the rules of the lead only allowed the side to purchase 1 foreign player a season. Nick thought long and hard, but in the end his instincts told him to make an offer for Higuain, as he felt he would give the most to the team in the long run. The other player Nick had made a bid for was young Figueirense defender Michel Schmoller, who was another player who looked like an excellent prospect for the future, and he had a minimum fee release clause in his newly signed contract of £2.2 million pounds, a fee that Nick matched and one he was more than happy to pay for such an outstanding young player.

During the course of the next two weeks, Nick had finally got his squad just how he wanted it, with his final two additions of Schmoller and Higuain, and he felt he had a team that was capable of challenging for the Serie A title and maybe even challenging for the Champions League, although deep down he knew that was a difficult task. The £2.2 million fee for Michel Schmoller was accepted, as his club had no choice but to accept it, and the young Brazilian was quick to accept terms with Nick. He said to the press he was delighted to move to Juventus, describing it as the 'best moment of his life', and Nick was more than happy to have such a talented individual at his disposal. It had been a bit more of a chore to get River to agree to a deal for Higuain though, as they felt he was worth a lot of money and were holding out for a silly sum of money. In the end, after a weeks strenuous negotiation, a fee of £8.75 million was agreed with a 30% sell-on clause, and once Nick had started to discuss terms with the Frenchman it was easy to sway him towards a move to Italy. The key factor was the fact Juve were expected to challenge for honours, and Nick felt that they could do that for several years with players such as Higuain in the squad. In the two weeks he was negotiating terms with Higuain and Schmoller he had also been in charge for two friendly matches, away games against Belgian side Standard Liege and French side Caen. The Standard game had seen the strike force of Bendtner and Bojinov, and they seemed to be a good combination. Bendtner opened the scoring on 26 minutes, latching onto a Camoranesi pass and firing the ball underneath the Standard keeper, taking the goal with aplomb. It was 11 minutes later that the match was decided, Younes Kaboul beating the Standard defence to the ball and heading home for a 2-0 lead. It stayed 2-0 for the rest of the match, neither side managing to find the back of the net again, and Nick was happy with his sides performance overall. The Caen game didn't see as good as performance as against Standard, but it was a different type of performance, a solid defensive performance to secure a 1-0 win. The goal came on 25 minutes, Mauro Camoranesi cutting inside the defence and firing low into the corner. Nothing else happened in the match, and two wins out of two was good enough for Nick.

[sherm]

Transfers In, July 2008

(All transfers for July)

Gabi from Atletico Madrid £4.2 million

Francisco Pavon from Mallorca £2.9 million

Michel Schmoller from Figueirense £2.2 million

Gonzalo Higuain from River Plate £8.75 million

Free Transfers In

Godwin Antwi from Liverpool Free

Nicklas Bendtner from Arsenal Free

Anis Ben Hatira from HSV Free

Wojciech Szczesny from Arsenal Free

Wayne Bridge from Chelsea Free

A tour of Portugal saw Nick and his side visit three different teams from different levels of Portuguese football, and it would provide a different set of tests for Nick and his team. The first game of the tour saw a trip to Santa Clara, a team in the second division, and it was an easy game to start the tour. It turned out to be a 4-0 victory, with all of the four goals coming in the space of a 16 minute period in the first half. The opener came in the 10th minute, a Ruben Olivera cross headed home by Francisco Pavon. It was 6 minutes later that the lead was doubled, Valeri Bojinov racing through the defence to slide the ball home underneath the onrushing keeper. Paro scored a third three minutes later, hitting a 25 yard free-kick into the top corner of the net to put the game beyond doubt. Matteo was on the transfer list, and wouldn't be at the club much longer, but he was determined to go out with a bang. Bojinov scored his second and the teams 4th on 26 minutes, sealing the game and putting a seal on a terrific performance. Nick made 7 different substitutions in the second half, and although there were no more goals for either side Nick was happy enough with his sides performance and he felt they were starting to gel well together.

Varzim and Nacional De Madiera were the final two games of the tour, and they both resulted in wins for Nick and his side. The first game, against Varzim, was a first start for Gonzalo Higuain in Juventus colours, and he scored the first goal of the match after 2 minutes, firing home from the edge of the area into the bottom corner of the net. Despite having several chances in the first half, and the second half, they didn't score again until the 75th minute, substitute Rafaelle Palladino curling the ball home from the edge of the area to secure the win. Varzim did pull one back after 84 minutes, but it had no effect on the game and the final result, Juventus running out 2-1 winners. The Nacional De Madeira match was just as simple, another easy 2-0 victory for Nick's side, both goals coming in the second half from Bojinov in the 58th minute and Gabi in the 75th minute. Nick felt his side were more than ready for the start of the new season and their fitness levels were excellent, and the new signings were starting to fit in well.

Pre Season Round-Up

(Juventus scorers listen only)

Standard Liege 0-2 Juventus Bendtner (26) Kaboul (37)

Caen 0-1 Juventus Camoranesi (25)

Santa Clara 0-4 Juventus Pavon (10) Bojinov (16,26) Paro (19)

Varzim 1-2 Juventus Higuain (2) Palladino (75)

Nacional De Madeira 0-2 Juventus Bojinov (58) Gabi (75)

[sherm]

Nick was extremely interested to see how the draw for the Champions League came out, as his side were seeded and he felt a good draw would really set his team up for a good run in the competition. As it was, they were pitted against either IFK Goteborg or Domzale, and either one of those two teams would provide a fairly easy ride for his side. The league fixtures had also been faxed through, and with opening games against Genoa, Lazio and Ascoli he was confident he could get a good start to their season and really set the tone for a strong title challenge. Nick knew what his ideal starting eleven would be, and he felt he had a strong enough squad to really push for the Serie A title and give a really good showing in the Champions League. Nick had sat down with his chief scout Ciro Ferrara and assessed the squad, making notes on who he felt would be regular starters in the forth coming season.

IFK Goteborg had won their qualifying match in the second round and would meet Juventus in the third round of qualifying, the first leg of the tie was at the Delle Alpi, the new 69,041 seater Delle Alpi, so if Juve could get a good start at home, get a two or three goal win then the game would almost be assured, and Nick's side would be in the Champions League. The first leg was vital, and both sides wanted to get a good start, so they both started with their strongest possible teams. Bojinov and Dagoberto starting up-front for Juve with Bendtner on the bench. It was Bojinov that opened the scoring, racing through from Giannichedda's through ball and lofting the ball over the oncoming 'keeper to give his team a deserved lead. No more goals came in the first half, although it wasn't for want of trying, Bojinov, Dagoberto and Ruben Olivera all missing good chances. Going in at half time 1-0 in front was fine, but Nick knew that they needed to push on in the second half and take chances better than they had in the first half. Bojinov missed two chances in that second half in the first 10 minutes, both of which were very good chances. It wasn't until the 59th minute that the lead was doubled, Ruben Olivera's low ball across the box finding Giuliano Giannichedda who side footed the ball past the keeper and into the bottom corner. It was the other winger, Mauro Camoranesi, that set up the third and decisive goal, his right wing cross finding substitute Raffaelle Palladino's head and he duly found the top corner with his header. Goteborg did find the net on 88 minutes, but it was unlikely that the goal would make much difference to the tie, and Juventus had one foot in the Champions League.

The second leg of the tie was a game that was dependant on how well the defence played for each side. Nick knew he could afford to rest a couple of players, and he duly did do that, swapping Bojinov for Palladino and bringing Sidnei in for Younes Kaboul, as well as Andrea Gasbarroni taking Mauro Camoranesi's place on the right had side. That proved to be a good decision, as it was Gasbarroni's cross that found Dagoberto's right foot and his volley found the back of the Goteborg net to all but guarantee his side's progression into the Champions League proper. They could have had more goals in the match, Dagoberto and Olivera the worst offenders, and substitute Kevin Larsen missing two good chances to seal the match. The game was sealed with just the one goal, and it was a 4-1 aggregate victory to Nick and his side which guaranteed his sides progress. Goteborg had Fredrik Ljungman sent off in the 90th minute to really upset their momentum, but Nick was happy with his sides progression and the fact European football was coming to the Stadio Delle Alpi, and he felt the team would cope well with the strains and demands of the added games.

August 2008 Summary

(Serie A unless stated, Juventus scorers listed only)

Champions League 3rd Qualifying Round 1st Leg

Juventus 3-1 IFK Goteborg Bojinov (19) Giannichedda (59) Palladino (70)

Champions League 3rd Qualifying Round 1st Leg

IFK Goteborg 0-1 Juventus Dagoberto (23)

Juventus Qualify for Champions League

[sherm]

With the season well and truly underway Nick wanted his side to get a good start in the league, and he felt the opening game against Genoa allowed them to do that. The group stages of the Champions League had seen Nick's side drawn in a group that was not easy by any means, with English Champions Chelsea, French side Nantes and Dinamo Kiev, the Russian League runners-up, so if they got through that group then it would have been a good opening phase to the tournament. The Genoa manager thought it would be a good idea to comment to the press that he didn't think Juventus were capable of challenging the Serie A leaders for the title, and that they may challenge in a few years with some good signing and some luck. Nick wasn't going to be drawn into a war of words with the Genoa boss, so he didn't respond to the comment but just cut the clipping out and pinned it on the wall for the boys to see, and he left a message for the team to read with the cutting "Don't get riled by these comments lads, just go out there and let your feet do the talking. Show him what you can do on the pitch" he felt the message would really hit the boys and they would respond in the way they knew how to, on the pitch and using their feet. Nick expected them to respond, but he never expected to see what he saw against a good Genoa side, his team running rampant and putting 6 past the helpless Rubinho, who could do nothing about any of the goals. Nick's side were fabulous, and it was the perfect way to respond to any kind of criticism. Younes Kaboul opened the scoring on 7 minutes, rising highest above everybody to meet Olivera's cross and power home his header off the inside of the post and into the net. Provider turned goal scorer on 18 minutes, Olivera curling a 30 yard effort into the top corner of the net and having an opening day contender for goal of the season. On the half hour the game was virtually secure. debutant Gonzalo Higuain turning his marker and firing home to increase the lead to three goals. There was one more before half time, Luciano Figueroa getting his side back into the game right on half time with a lovely finish from 8 yards. Olivera was having a terrific game, and scored his second and the teams 4th on the hour, coming in at the back post to volley home Higuain's cross. Figueroa scored again for Genoa on 73 minutes to give them another glimmer of hope, but that was shattered 4 minutes later, Valeri Bojinov sliding home a 5th to seal victory. Higuain put the icing on the cake with 9 minutes left, heading home Camoranesi's cross for his second and the team's 6th to seal a remarkable away victory to open the season with, and Nick couldn't have asked for anymore form his team.

The next game on the agenda was Nick's 100th in charge of the club, and it was the first game of the Champions League group, at home against Nantes. They were a decent side but Nick felt his side had enough to overpower them and pick up three points. They dominated the game from first to last, although they could not find the killer goal in the final third to kill the game off. Bojinov, Giannichedda, Bendtner, Higuain and Olivera all missed brilliant chances to put the game beyond doubt, but nothing would find the net. Nick and his side tried everything they could think of, but the Nantes defence came away from the game with a lot of credit, as did the goalkeeper, they kept everything Juve threw at them out, and they were very close to nicking the game at the end, having a goal ruled out for a marginal offside decision, but Nick didn't celebrate his 100th game at the helm as he would have liked, he had to settle for a point to kick off the European campaign, and he rightly gave the praise to the Nantes defence and 'keeper, as they had deserved, the keeper picking up a man of the match award. Nick wanted his side to hammer home the advantage if they got it in the next game, a game that saw Lazio visit the Delle Alpi. It was another game that Nick's side dominated, and once again several chances were missed by his side, but the one vital goal came on the 57th minute, Gonzalo Higuain using his pace and power and beating three men before slotting the ball into the corner. He could have had another 5 minutes later, and Juve could have had three or four more, but the one goal was enough to secure them 6 points out of 6 to start their Serie A campaign off

[sherm]

A visit to Ascoli was next on the agenda, and it was another game Nick expected his side to pick up maximum points from, as Ascoli were sitting bottom of the league having not won yet this term and lost their last 4 games of the previous season, so Nick felt his team could do the business. Higuain picked up a slight strain, and with Inter the next game after Italy Nick didn't want to risk aggravating the injury any more than he had to, so Dagoberto took a starting berth alongside Valeri Bojinov, with Michel Schmoller taking Giannichedda's place in the centre of midfield. Juve started well, coming out and attacking as though they were the home side, and Younes Kaboul struck the bar from a Camoranesi corner after 12 minutes, with Dagoberto and Bojinov both missing good chances after that. It was Dagoberto who put his side in the lead though, sliding the ball home after receiving Gabi's through ball on 27 minutes. They did go in at half-time two ahead, the on-form Ruben Olivera cutting in from the lift and striking the ball home from just inside the area to double his sides lead. Ascoli seemed to wake up after this, and very nearly got themselves back into the match before the interval, Didier Digard heading against the bar in stoppage time, but as it was Nick was able to give his team talk with his side two goals clear. A third goal would kill the game off, and this is what Nick sent his side out to do, score that third killer goal. They could have had it three times before they finally did get it, Francisco Pavon volleying home after staying forward for Ruben Olivera's 61st minute corner. Once Pavon had scored that was game over, and Nick's side were able to take their foot off the gas, although they could have two or three more before the final whistle, but Nick was happy with his team as they cruised to another victory.

The most difficult test of the season was up next for Nick and his side as League Champions Inter Milan visited Stadio Delle Alpi looking to get their season up and running after a rather slow start so far, having won 1, drawn 1 and lost 1 of their first three games. Nick knew his side were playing really well but a win against the defending champions would really set the tone, and make the rest of the league sit up and take notice of what they wanted to do. Nick was struck a late blow as Valeri Bojinov picked up a virus in the days leading up to the match, which meant Nicklas Bendtner came in to partner Gonzalo Higuain up-front. The team got off to a terrific start, coming out of the traps at a great pace and taking a 10th minute lead, Mauro Camoranesi's cross to the far post turned into his own net by Walter Samuel. Chance after chance came for Juve, and Inter had their fair share too, the worst culprits for them being Ibrahimovic and Adriano, who both missed good chances. Bendtner and Higuain seemed to be a good combination, and it was these two that combined to double the advantage 4 minutes from half time, Higuain's final ball to Bendtner who lofted the ball over the onrushing Toldo to send his side in 2-0 up at the half time interval. The team just had to keep up their current style of play, and defend their lead tightly, Inter were still a dangerous attacking threat. 7 minutes into the second half was when the game was finished, Gabi curling a free-kick into the far corner to put his side three in front. Inter looked all at sea, and They were 4-0 behind before an hours play had passed, Bendtner heading home his second goal to really send a clear-cut message to the rest of Serie A. Despite not scoring anymore goals it didn't make much difference, and Inter ran out 4-0 winners, a margin not even the most die hard fan would have predicted before the game.

[sherm]

After such a terrific win against Inter, Nick knew his side needed to build on that to end the month, with two away trips to Dinamo Kiev and Napoli. The team couldn't afford to be complacent after such a good result and they had to win the Kiev game after such a disappointing draw against Nantes. Bojinov was still out and Bendtner was dropped to the bench for Dagoberto to come into the team, and he justified his selection with the two goals that won the game for his team. The first was a typical Dagoberto effort, receiving the ball from a Giannichedda pass and slotting home past the helpless 'keeper on 16 minutes. He scored his and the side's second on 25 minutes, but could have easily had 1, if not 2 more before he rose to head home Ruben Olivera's corner and double his and his team's tally. Dagoberto was terrific all throughout the game, and Higuain was constantly a thorn in the side of the defence as he had been throughout his short time at Delle Alpi. Neither side could find the net in the remaining 65 minutes of football, and Juventus ran out rather comfortable winners by the 2-0 margin to put them level on points with Chelsea in the group. The Napoli game, which Nick expected to be tough, was one of the most enthralling games of recent times, both teams throwing caution to the wind and playing end to end stuff, and in the end the result was fair as neither side deserved to lose. The lead went to Napoli after 23 minutes, Christian Bucchi turning his man and striking home with the outside of his right boot past Buffon. Juventus were soon back in the match though, and 2 goals in 2 minutes from Higuain gave them the lead. The first, a 20 yard volley from a defensive header came on 31 minutes while the second was on 33, a header home from Camoranesi's cross. It looked like Nick would be giving his team talk with his team in-front but it was not to be, Bucchi equalising with the final kick of the first half. The second period was just about ten minutes old when the returning Valeri Bojinov regained the lead for his side, chipping the hapless Iezzo from 30 yards after the 'keepers poor clearance fell straight to his feet. Tjhe equaliser, and final goal of the match, came from Zlatan Ljubijankic on 84 minutes, a brilliant goal as he beat three men before placing the ball into the net. The game was thrilling for both set of supporters, and both managers had to accept a point was a fair result.

September 2008 Summary

(Serie A unless stated, Juventus scorers listed only)

Genoa 2-6 Juventus Kaboul (7) Olivera (18,60) Higuain (30,81) Bojinov (77)

Juventus 1-0 Lazio Higuain (57)

Ascoli 0-3 Juventus Dagoberto (27) Olivera (38) Pavon (61)

Juventus 4-0 Inter Milan Samuel O.G (10) Bendtner (41,59) Gabi (52)

Napoli 3-3 Juventus Higuain (31,33) Bojinov (56)

Champions League Group A

Juventus 0-0 Nantes

Champions League Group A

Dinamo Kiev 0-2 Juventus Dagoberto (16,25)

League Position : 1st

[sherm]

After a great start to the season, in a September which saw 5 wins and two draws for his side, and sitting pretty at the top of the table, Nick knew that the team needed to build on that start and really push on in the next month. The opening game was against Chievo, who visited Stadio Delle Alpi having had a good start themselves, lying in third place in the table, so Nick expected his team to get a difficult test. Gonzalo Higuain wasn't fully fit, so he wasn't risked, and Nicklas Bendtner and Valeri Bojinov started up-front, and Michel Schmoller replaced Giuliano Giannichedda in the centre of midfield. From the start of the game, Schmoller gave a performance beyond his years, dominating the midfield with biting tackles and pinpoint passing, earning himself a man of the match award, which was fully deserved. He could have had a couple of goals to top off his performance too, although it was his assist that set up the only goal of the match, a cross from the right hand side on 55 minutes that Francisco Pavon headed home. Both sides had chances before that, and Juve should have been at least three in front at half time, Bendtner, Bojinov and Gabi all missing good chances in the first period, but it was Pavon's 55th minute strike that settled the game. Chievo could have had an equaliser, but the Juve defence and Gianluigi Buffon managed to keep them at bay for the remainder of the game. The team took a break from their Serie A campaign to play English Champions Chelsea in the Champions League. Chelsea were a side funded by a Russian Billionaire, and they had some real quality players, and the trip to Stamford bridge would be a very difficult game for the team. A fully fit Higuain was back for this game, and he gave his side a dream start, heading home Olivera's cross after just 3 minutes to stun the Bridge into silence. Against teams like Chelsea, you have to take your chances, and Juve had several more in that first half, the best of which fell to Valeri Bojinov, who should have scored two goals from excellent chances. As it was, Juve didn't find another goal, and Chelsea got the expected equaliser on 56 minutes, Arjen Robben cutting in from the left before firing across Buffon and low into the corner. Neither side were able to find the net again after that, and Nick was happy to settle for coming away from Stamford Bridge with a point.

Fiorentina visited the Delle Alpi next, and they were a side that did brilliantly last season to finish 4th and gain a Champions League spot, but their start to this campaign had left a lot to be desired. It turned out to be a good game, and Fiorentina came out and took an early lead, Luca Toni side footing the ball home from 6 yards after 12 minutes, but this goal seemed to really fire Juve up, and they were level 5 minutes later, Higuain volleying home from the edge of the area with his right foot to even things up. Juve were on front at half time though, Ruben Olivera popping up at the far post in the 28th minute to convert Higuain's cross-cum-shot to give his side a deserved lead. Both Higuain and Olivera had chances after that though, and they could and should have been out of sight at the interval, having hit the post and the bar in the first period. The second half really secured the win for Juve, although they didn't score any other goals, but Fiorentina were reduced to 8 men by the end of the 90 minutes. The first red card came for Adrian Mutu, who jumped for a header and swung his elbow back into Younes Kaboul's face, which the referee deemed to be deliberate contact and he had no hesitation to produce the red card. Reginaldo, a man who had been Fiorentina's creative force, was the next man to go, a second yellow card offence after tripping Higuain on 65 minutes to really put his team in at the deep end. The final nail in the coffin was on 71 minutes, captain and centre back Danielle Dainelli showing his frustration and lashing out at Juve defender Kaboul, before the referee consulted his linesman and produced his third red card of the match.

[sherm]

A trip to Roma was the next game for Nick and his side, and it would likely be another difficult game for them. Giannichedda came back into the team after a little absence, and he showed why he was still a very valuable asset to have around the dressing room, as well as on the pitch with a superb display. He stopped the creativity of Roma flowing freely, marking Totti out of the game so much that he was taken off after 56 minutes. The scoring was opened on 16 minutes, the very much in-form Ruben Olivera scoring a wonderful goal, beating four men and curling home from just shy of 30 yards, a fabulous strike from a man who had really come into his own so far in the campaign. He was magnificent down that left wing, running at defenders, using trickery, pace and skill to beat the full back, and when he did he was whipping brilliant crosses in to his strikers. He could have had two more himself, aswell as Bojinov and Higuain having headers saved from Olivera crosses. The second goal for Juve came on 56 minutes, Giannichedda breaking free of his man and sliding the ball home underneath the keeper. Roma did get back into it in the 77th minute, substitute Stefano Okaka heading home a Mancini cross to give his team hope, but that is all it was, as Juve held on for the win and another three points. Another away trip followed up the Roma game, against newly promoted Reggina, who were sitting just above the relegation places, and Nick felt his side could gain three more points against them. Reggina had very different ideas, and came out with the intent of winning the match, taking a shock lead after 21 minutes, Missiroli beating the Juve defence and firing low and hard past Buffon. Missiroli scored a second goal, but he got it in the wrong net unfortunately him and his team, his outstretched leg turning home Camoranesi's cross on 37 minutes. Both sides went for the win after this, although they needed the points for different reasons, and neither side was able to find the breakthrough, both settling for a 1-1 draw and a point apiece.

Two games remained in the month, with Chelsea visiting the Delle Alpi and Juve having a trip to Lecce, their game in hand which was postponed earlier in the month. After earning a point at Stamford Bridge, and gibing a very good account of themselves, Nick felt his side were capable of getting another positive result, maybe even a win against the English side. The game started much the same as it did at the Bridge, both sides creating chances and going for the win, but in the first 45 minutes neither side managed to find the breakthrough. Juve definitely had the better chances, Bojinov and Bendtner both having good attempts to beat Petr Cech, but the opening goal came from the home side, Shevchenko beating the defence and shooting high into the roof of the net for the only goal of the match. Both teams went for goals after that, Juve looking for the equaliser and Chelsea looking for the second goal to kill the game off. They didn't need it in the end, as Juve were unable to find the equaliser and Chelsea held on for the 1-0 win. The trip to Lecce would prove to be a very entertaining game for the neutrals, and for the sets of supporters from both teams. Higuain was back in place of Bendtner, and Schmoller took Giannichedda's place in central midfield, but once again it was Ruben Olivera who was the star man, scoring two and making two more for a man of the match performance. His opener came on 2 minutes, a free-kick from the edge of the area curled past the keeper and over the wall. Lecce did equalise on 21 minutes however, although Olivera put his team back ahead 7 minutes later, utilising his pace and firing home for his and his teams second of the game. It was 2-1 at half time, and the third Juve goal came on 68 minutes, Gabi diving to head home Olivera's whipped cross to all but seal the game. Lecce got back into the match again 4 minutes later, Adailton scooping the ball over the oncoming Buffon, but Juve settled the match on 81 minutes, Olivera's left wing cross finding the head of Higuain who powered it home to keep his side top of the table. It had been another good performance for his side, and Nick was delighted with his teams performance.

October 2008 Summary

(Serie A unless stated, Juventus scorers listed only)

Juventus 1-0 Chievo Pavon (55)

Juventus 2-1 Fiorentina Higuain (17) Olivera (28)

Roma 1-2 Juventus Olivera (16) Giannichedda (54)

Reggina 1-1 Juventus Missiroli O.G (37)

Lecce 2-4 Juventus Olivera (2,28) Gabi (68) Higuain (81)

Champions League Group A

Chelsea 1-1 Juventus Higuain (3)

Champions League Group A

Juventus 0-1 Chelsea

League Position : 1st

[sherm]

November opened with Siena visiting Stadio Delle Alpi, and Nick wanted his side to continue their recent good form with another victory. Siena hadn't been on the greatest run of form, although they had caused Nick and his side problems in the past. Bojinov and Daniel Sturridge started as the front two, a combination that was yet to be tried out, and Nick was confident that they could continue their recent good performances. The opening goal came on the 5th minute, Valeri Bojinov racing through the defence to slide the ball underneath the 'keeper and put his team in the lead. Bojinov doubled the lead on 16 minutes, heading home a Ruben Olivera cross to put his team completely in the driving seat. There were no more goals until right on half time, Bojinov completing his hat-trick with a left footed shot that he curled round the keeper and nestle it in the bottom corner. That was the game well and truly over, but Juve hadn't finished, they had more tricks up their sleeve. They did score a 4th just after the hour, Gabi's free kick deflecting off the wall and wrong footing the keeper to put a real gloss on the scoreline. It wasn't finished there either, Daniel Sturridge really finishing the game off by finishing off Bojinov's low pass to give his side a fifth. There were no more goals, and Siena had to admit they were totally and utterly outclassed, Juventus' sheer quality shining through. The Coppa Italia provided a break from their league campaign, and Serie B leaders Catania were the opposition, which would provide a difficult test for Nick and his side. They were on an unbeaten run of 8 games and Nick felt his team would need to be at their best to overcome then over the test of Catania. Nick decided to rest a few of his major players, with Higuain, Bojinov, Buffon and several others rested to allow several younger players the chance to play. Daniel Sturridge started the game and he was a constant threat, using his pace as the weapon. The only thing he, or any of his team mates did wrong was not finding the back of the net. No matter what they tried they could not break the Serie B side's defence down, and Catania came away from Delle Alpi with a 0-0 draw that they will be delighted with.

There was a two week break before the next game for Nick and his side, and it gave him the opportunity to scour the transfer market for some players, preferably a right sided defender, as Nick felt Felice Piccolo was not really up to the standard that he expected. It had helped that the board had strengthened the financial position so much that they gave Nick an extra £9.5 million to spend, meaning he had over £10 million in the kitty. He had sent his scouts out to look for potential players, and he had also started to look himself. It took a week, but finally Nick found a really good prospect for the right back position, a 20 year old Frenchman from Marseille, Garry Bocaly, who looked to be an excellent prospect. After making contact with Marseille, and agreeing a fee of £9 million pounds (£8.25 upfront, £750k after 30 appearances) he invited Bocaly to Italy, treating him to a dinner and showing him round the ground. After discussing terms over dinner, and Garry seemingly impressed by the surroundings, they agreed a contract, which would see Bocaly join up with the squad at the start of the January transfer window, a signing Nick was delighted to have captured. The squad seemed pleased with the acquisition too, and Nick was happy with this as he didn't want tension in the ranks. Torino visited the Delle Alpi, a game which Bocaly stayed to watch his future team-mates in, so Nick wanted his side to put on a good performance. They did do, and 2 goals in the space of three minutes settled the game, giving the three points to Juve. The first came on 13 minutes, the very much in-form Ruben Olivera running to the by-line before jinking inside the defence and hitting the ball with the outside of his left foot past the 'keeper. The second goal came from Gonzalo Higuain on 16 minutes, as he took down Camoranesi's floated ball and struck it home on the half volley. There were no more goals for either side, and Nick was happy with his side's performance to stay top of the table.

[sherm]

The Champions League was a competition that Nick really wanted to do well in, as it would really show the rest of Europe that he and his side meant business. The penultimate game of the group stage, an away trip to France to play Nantes, was a must-win game for Nick's team if they were to progress to the knockout stages. Ruben Olivera picked up a knock in the days leading up to the game which meant Kevin Larsen took his place on the left wing, and Buffon, Higuain and Dagoberto regained their places in the squad. Nantes were a good side at home, and had a very good record, so Nick expected a tough game for his team. They started well, Dagoberto and Giannichedda missing good chances, and Larsen really cementing his presence on the left hand side, whipping crosses in whenever he could, and running at defenders, as all good wingers should. It was Larsen who put Juve in the lead, this time it was left back Wayne Bridge whipping the cross in and Larsen fired it into the corner from 8 yards out. That was ten minutes from half time, and before the interval Dagoberto could have doubled the lead, missing a glorious chance to seal the match. It wasn't until the 65th minute of the match that Juve did seal the game, Dagoberto heading home from Mauro Camoranesi's cross to secure the win for his team. They could have had more goals though, maybe could have ended up winning by 4 or 5 goals, but the 2-0 scoreline was how it stayed, and Nick knew his side just needed a win to qualify. After the Nantes game, Nick had to prepare his side for a trip to Sampdoria, a team that seemed to turn on the style whenever they played Nick's side, and Nick warned his side of their dangers going forward. As it was, Juve were the better team and got off to the better start, taking the lead through Gonzalo Higuain on 17 minutes, as he volleyed home Camoranesi's cross. They should have had the game settled, and missing the good chances would come back to haunt them, Sampdoria grabbing an equaliser on the hour mark, Soloman Kalou beating the defence and slotting underneath Buffon to get his team back into the game. Hero turned villain on 71 minutes, as Kalou was sent off for a second bookable offence but Juve could not take advantage of the man advantage and Sampdoria came away with a point that they would be happy with in the circumstances.

The second leg of the Coppa Italia 1st Round saw Nick take his side to Catania, and once again he adopted his policy of resting regular first team players and playing a few younger players in the games. This was the game that really cemented Daniel Sturridge's quality as a first team player, as he was superb all game, just as he was in the first game against Catania, but his finishing was much better in this game, as he scored both of the goals that sealed his sides progression to the Quarter Finals. The first came after 9 minutes, Sturridge using his pace to beat his man and loft the ball over the on-rushing keeper to give his side the lead. There were no more goals in the remainder of that half, although chances came for both sides, Catania having good chances to equalise, but the game was settled just after half time, 6 minutes into the second half, when Sturridge scored his and his side's second goal, curling the ball home from 20 yards to put his side into the next round. They did still have chances in the match, and could have scored a few more, but the two goal win was more than enough to send them into the Quarter Finals. The final game of the month saw A.C Milan visit Delle Alpi, for a game that would really show the rest of the league how serious Juve were about a title chase. It was a very open game, with both sides going for goals, the best chances falling to Dagoberto and Bojinov for Juve, and Torres and Suazo and for Milan. This continued throughout the match, both sides knowing that a win was vital, even at this relatively early stage of the season, and the goal that settled the match came in the third minute of stoppage time at the end of the match. Milan were on the attack, and it was a Dagoberto clearance that went straight over everybody, landing at the feet of Valeri Bojinov who duly slotted the ball home underneath Dida to give his side a three points that the fans, and their manager were delighted with.

November 2008 Summary

(Serie A unless stated, Juventus scorers listed only)

Juventus 5-0 Siena Bojinov (5,16,45) Gabi (61) Sturridge (77)

Juventus 2-0 Torino Olivera (13) Higuain (16)

Sampdoria 1-1 Juventus Higuain (17)

Juventus 1-0 A.C Milan Bojinov (90)

Champions League Group A

Nantes 0-2 Juventus Larsen (38) Dagoberto (65)

Coppa Italia 1st Round 1st Leg

Juventus 0-0 Catania

Coppa Italia 1st Round 2nd Leg

Catania 0-2 Juventus Sturridge (9,51)

League Position : 1st

[Baroud]

Great story so far. I love Juve and I'm really happy to see you get such fantastic results. Good luck for bringing the title where it belongs and keep on the good work mate.

[sherm]

Baroud - Thanks for the support, and I'm glad you like the story. Hopefully you're right and I can bring the title home - who knows what the future holds

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

December saw the final group game of the Champions League for Nick and his side, Dinamo Kiev visiting the Delle Alpi with both sides needing the win to qualify, a position that they were in because of Kiev's shock win against Chelsea the previous game. It was a game that required the strongest possible line-up for Nick and his side, and he was hurt by Bojinov picking up a virus before the match, meaning Bendtner stepped into the starting lineup in his place. This proved to be a good decision on Nick's part, as Bendtner opened the scoring on 9 minutes, converting the cross from Ruben Olivera on the left wing. The second came on 20 minutes, the right winger Mauro Camoranesi popping up at the far post to head home the ball for a 2-0 lead for his side. They were superb in the remainder of the half, and ended up sealing the game in a 3 minute flurry at the end of the half, Gonzalo Higuain scoring twice in those two minutes to send his side 4-0 up at the break and secure the win, and their qualification from the group. The second half produced no more goals, as Juve took their foot off the pedal, but Nick was more than happy with the 4 goal win to send his side through and set up a knockout round match, and hopefully their progression to a good finish in the competition.

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

PL W D L GD PTS

1. Chelsea 6 3 2 1 +3 11

2. JUVENTUS 6 3 2 1 +7 11

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

3. Dinamo Kiev 6 2 1 3 -4 7

4. Nantes 6 1 1 4 -4 4

</pre>

An away trip to Parma was next up for Juve, another game that could be difficult for Nick and his side. The good note was that Bojinov returned for the game, and he marked this return with two goals to set his team on the way to another victory. He opened the scoring on 8 minutes, rising highest to head home Olivera's corner and put his team in the lead. Parma equalised on 17 minutes, a rare defensive mistake from Bridge allowing the striker to nip in and beat Buffon. Bojinov put his side back in front on 34 minutes, playing a lovely one-two with Gabi and placing the ball home with the inside of his right foot. 4 minutes after that, Kaboul scored the third goal, hitting a shot from 25 yards that took a wicked deflection and found its way into the bottom left hand corner to increase the lead to two goals. Right on half time, Parma scored a second to get back into it again, but the goal made no difference as Juve hung on for the 3-2 win, which kept them top of the league, and if they could be in that position going into the new year then Nick would be a very happy man.

[sherm]

A home game against Messina was the next port of call for Nick's side, and if he was honest then Nick expected three points from the game. Messina came to the Stadio Delle Alpi and seemed determined to de-rail the Juventus title charge. It all started well for Nick and his side, Daniel Sturridge utilising his pace and giving his side a 12th minute lead after beating the defence and slotting underneath the Messina keeper. This seemed to really fire up Messina, and they came out all guns blazing after this, equalising on 24 minutes, their striker heading home from a free-kick. It was level at half time, and Juve seemed to be underestimating the visitors, which was a bad mistake, as Messina took the lead on 66 minutes, the Juve defence all out of sorts and Messina taking advantage of that. Juve were seconds away from their first League defeat of the season, it was a 92nd minute goal from Bojinov that rescued a point with a header from Camoranesi's cross, saving his teams skin and keeping them top of the league. The performance was not brilliant, and Nick let his team know as much, saying he wanted a much better performance and result against Mantova in their next game. Nick's message obviously didn't hit home, as the team gave another shocking performance, losing against the bottom team in the league (a team without a win too) 2-1, even after taking the lead in the 17th minute through Gabi. Mantova scored their two goals in the 34th and 88th minute, condemning Juve to their first League defeat of the season. Nick was furious with his team, especially with the big top of the table clash against Udinese next up in the league. Udinese had shocked everybody, and were sat 2nd in the table, 3 points behind Juve, and nobody had expected that they would be there, but manager Marcello Lippi had got them playing some attractive football and they were really working as a team. The game started well for Juve, in the first 45 minutes finding themselves 2-0 up thanks to goals from Gabi and Gonzalo Higuain goals. Juve tried extremely hard to find the third and decisive goal, and Udinese got themselves back into the match on 76 minutes, Gyan Asamoah slotting home to give his team some hope in the match. Neither side managed to find the net after that, and Juve held on for a terrific 2-1 win which kept them top of the league and three points clear at the top.

December 2008 Summary

(Serie A unless stated, Juventus scorers listed only)

Parma 2-3 Juventus Bojinov (8,34) Kaboul (35)

Juventus 2-2 Messina Sturridge (12) Bojinov (90)

Mantova 2-1 Juventus Gabi (17)

Juventus 2-1 Udinese Gabi (34) Higuain (37)

Champions League Group A

Juventus 4-0 Dinamo Kiev Bendtner (9) Camoranesi (20) Higuain (42,45)

League Position : 1st

Champions League Group A : Qualified in 2nd place

[sherm]

December 2008 Serie A Standings

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

PL W D L GD PTS

1. JUVENTUS 18 13 4 1 +26 43

2. Udinese 18 13 1 4 +11 40

3. Inter Milan 17 11 4 2 +10 37

4. A.C Milan 18 9 6 3 +12 33

5. Lazio 18 8 7 3 +14 31

6. Chievo 18 8 6 4 +3 30

</pre>

The League Table made for wonderful reading if you were connected with Juventus, the Old Lady sitting at the top, three points clear of Udinese, having lost just one league game all season. Bojinov and Higuain had struck up a good partnership and combined to score over 20 goals, and the defence seemed to be doing well, although Nick still felt that he needed replacements, having already secured the transfer of Garry Bocaly from Marseille, and scouring the market for a centre back. He also felt that a defensive midfielder was needed, as even though Giannichedda had been performing well in that role he was, at 34, advancing in years, so Nick wanted someone to fill in for him almost straightaway. Having sent his scouts out to look for suitable transfer targets, although Nick had seen the fact that Manchester United's Spanish defender Gerard Pique was available, and at £3.4 million pounds, Nick felt it would be money worth spending for a quality young defender, and had no hesitation in putting the bid in. Unfortunately, there were plenty of other parties interested in Pique's services, including Chelsea, Arsenal, Milan and Real Madrid among others. Nick wasn't overly confident of capturing his signature, but he still felt worthy of putting a bid in. After a week of scouting, he had also had Gladbach midfielder Eugen Polanski recommended to him, and after enquiring with Gladbach he had made an offer, one that totalled over £10 million pounds, but Nick was quite happy to pay that money.

Over the course of the week, Nick had met Polanski to discuss terms, and he had proved to be quite a hard bargainer. Nick had explained the situation, in that Polanski would be eased into the role currently occupied by Giannichedda, and that once in that role he would be an integral part of the side. Eventually, after several hours, Polanski agreed terms and a deal was signed, the German midfielder would join up with his new team-mates on July 1st. Nick had also been surprised, but delighted, that Gerard Pique had agreed terms to come to the Stadio Delle Alpi also, and he was delighted to beat a whole host of other big name clubs to his signature. Pique was a top class international defender, who would surely be a future Spain and Juve captain, his cool head making him mature beyond his years, and he would slot straight into the first team at the heart of the defence beside Younes Kaboul, and although it was a young central defensive pairing, it was a top class pairing, and one Nick was delighted to have at his disposal.

Transfers In, January 2009

Garry Bocaly from Marseille £8.25mil

Gerard Pique from Manchester United £3.4mil

Eugen Polanksi from Gladbach £10.5mil

[sherm]

January opened with Roma visiting the Delle Alpi, a game which could turn out to be difficult. It was the Quarter Final of the Coppa Italia, and a good result in the first leg for either of the sides would mean having one foot in the Semi Finals. Nick continued his policy of putting out his weaker teams (although that wasn't necessarily the correct term to use) and it saw Sturridge and Bendtner start up-front. Garry Bocaly and Gerard Pique also made their Juventus debuts in the defence, Pique in the centre and Bocaly on the right hand side. The two strikers managed to combine well to score all three of their teams goals, to all but put them into the semi finals of the competition. Bendtner opened the scoring, beating his marker to the ball and heading the ball home from Ben Hatira's cross on 19 minutes. The second goal came just two minutes later, Sturridge using his pace and slotting the ball underneath the onrushing 'keeper. It stayed 2-0 through till the 63rd minute, Sturridge scoring his second and the teams third to put the game beyond doubt. They could have had more throughout the remainder of the game, Sturridge and Bendtner both missing good chances, but Roma did manage to get back into the match, Okaka scoring a header in the 88th minute to give his side a glimmer of hope and a chance to get back into the tie. Nick was happy that his side were all but in the semi-finals of the competition. Palermo were the opponents for the first league game of 2009, Nick and his side visiting the team with the most manly shirts in all of football. It was another game that Nick expected to be difficult, and he wasn't wrong either, his side succumbing to a 2-1 defeat. Palermo opened the scoring on 24 minutes, Amauri beating his marker to head the ball against the post before Peter Crouch put the rebound home. Eugen Polanski, making his debut for the team, was running the midfield, playing terrifically well and keeping his side in the match. However, on 67 minutes, Nick and his new record signing really had a bad time of it. Polanski went in for a crunching tackle, and it was almost as if his legs had collapsed under him. He went down in a crumpled heap, and was stretchered off with a brace around his right leg, an injury that was later confirmed to be a broken foot, an it would keep him out for the remainder of the season, an enormous blow for both Eugen and his manager. The team did get back into the game and equalised on 84 minutes, Bojinov heading home Olivera's cross and look like he had rescued a point for his side. As it was, he hadn't, Amauri winning the team for his side with a deflected effort in stoppage time to send Juve crashing to their second defeat of the season.

Nick had not been happy with the Palermo winner, as he felt Amauri was in an offside position when he scored, and he vented his frustration to the authorities. It earned him a one match touchline ban, and luckily it was only in the Coppa Italia that his assistant would be taking charge. The only thing Nick had to do was pick the side, and he decided to go with the same team that won the first leg. This proved to be a good decision, as they ran out 3-1 winners, sending them through 6-2 on aggregate to meet Milan in the semi finals. They were 2-0 up and had secured their progress after 8 minutes, the goals coming from Camoranesi, scoring from the penalty spot on 5 minutes and Giuliano Giannichedda heading home on 8 minutes. Both sides went for goals during the course of the game, but only found the net once more each, Taddei for Roma at the start of the 2nd half and Bojinov putting the icing on the cake with 5 minutes left, sliding the ball home underneath the onrushing keeper. Nick was happy to progress, and gave his side every chance of beating Milan in the semi finals later in the month. A trip to Lazio followed up the Palermo match, and it was another league game where they didn't play that well, Nick counting themselves very fortunate to escape with a point thanks to Younes Kaboul's 85th minute equaliser. Giannichedda gave his side the lead after a quarter of an hour though, beating his man to the ball and firing home from the edge of the area. Lazio scored twice in 5 minutes in the second half, scoring on 67 and 72 minutes to almost snatch a win away, but Kaboul's header snatched a point for his side to keep them top of the league.

[sherm]

Milan visited the Delle Alpi next, and they had intentions to win as they put their strongest available team out against Nick's same eleven that beat Roma. Both sides played their usual game, attacking and looking for goals, and it was Milan that broke the deadlock on 37 minutes, Pirlo's curled free-kick that found the head of Fernando Torres who powered the ball home and gave his side what could prove to be a vital away goal. Nick saw his side dominate after that, missing chance after chance after chance, until finally the ball found the back of the net with 2 minutes remaining, Daniel Sturridge capitalising on a defensive error and firing the ball home underneath Dida to level the tie for his side. He could have snatched it late on too, hitting the frmae of the goal with a volley from 6 yards, but a draw gave them a good chance at the San Siro of progressing. Ascoli were the next visitors to Turin, in a game that Juve simply had to win. There was no other way to describe it, other than must-win situation. As it was, the game was a relative stroll in the park, a comfortable 2-0 win and Ascoli finishing the 90 minutes with 8 men on the field. Ruben Olivera put his side in front on 21 minutes, cutting inside from the left and firing a low shot into the bottom right hand corner of the net. The game was settled by Bojinov just after the hour mark, as he beat the keeper to the ball before rounding him and sliding home into the empty net. Ascoli were down to 9 men by this point, having had Hamit Altintop and Johnann Vogel dismissed on 45 and 60 minutes respectively. The final man sent off was Andre Bahia, on 67 minutes, as he threw a punch in the direction of Bojinov. Juve held on for a vital and much needed 2-0 win.

The return leg of the Coppa Italia saw Juve press and press at the San Siro, looking for that away goal that would put them back level but it just wouldn't come, Milan somehow holding form for a 0-0 draw to progress to the final to meet Torino. The best chances fell to Bendtner and Sturridge, and substitute Raffale Palladino could and maybe should have had a hat-trick, but it just wasn't to be as Milan secured their progression through the game. Genoa were the final game of the month as they visited the Delle Alpi, with both themselves and Nick's side looking for three points. Bojinov was back in the side, as was Gonzalo Higuain, and these were the two men that scored the goals to send Juve to a 2-1 win and keep them top of the table. Bojinov scored the first on 37 minutes, playing a lovely one-two with his strike partner before firing home on the half volley. Genoa equalised, Figueroa (again) scoring against the run of play on 76 minutes to level it up for his team. As it happened, the final goal came from Higuain on 83 minutes, as he finished off a lovely team move by dinking the ball gently over the keeper to secure the three points and keep his side top going into February.

January 2009 Summary

(Serie A unless stated, Juventus scorers listed only)

Palermo 2-1 Juventus Bojinov (84)

Lazio 2-2 Juventus Giannichedda (15) Kaboul (85)

Juventus 2-0 Ascoli Olivera (21) Bojinov (62)

Juventus 2-1 Genoa Bojinov (37) Higuain (83)

Coppa Italia Quarter Final, 1st Leg

Juventus 3-1 Roma Bendtner (19) Sturridge (21,63)

Coppa Italia Quarter Final, 2nd Leg

Roma 1-3 Juventus Camoranesi pen (5) Giannichedda (8) Bojinov (85)

Coppa Italia Semi Final, 1st Leg

Juventus 1-1 A.C Milan Sturridge (88)

Coppa Italia Semi Final, 2nd Leg

A.C Milan 0-0 Juventus

[sherm]

A trip to the San Siro to play League Champions Inter opened up the month, and it was a game that Nick really wanted his side to do well in, and keep their title hopes well and truly alive. Inter had been inconsistent recently, and Nick felt his side would be able to pick up all three points. They started well, getting themselves several good chances, Bojinov, Higuain and Gabi all having excellent chances to put the team in front. As it was, Inter took the lead, Zlatan Ibrahimovic beating the Juve defence and slotting the ball underneath the onrushing Buffon. Nick had his team talk ready for his side when they came in at half time, but he had to rapidly change it after Inter doubled their lead just before half-time, Ibrahimovic heading home and putting his side right in the driving seat. In the second half, Nick's side really went after the Inter defence, but it wasn't until the 83rd minute that they scored, Gabi curling home a free-kick to get his side back into the lead. That was the only goal that they managed to score, not managing to equalise and going down to their third league defeat of the season. It was a defeat that Nick was disappointed with, and one that he knew his team needed to bounce back from. They did this in their next game, beating Napoli 2-0 thanks to goals from Sturridge and Higuain. Sturridge had really started to impress and his goal just before half time gave his side the lead, as he used his pace to beat the defence and slot the ball home into the corner. Higuain doubled the lead 7 minutes after the interval, heading home Mauro Camoranesi's cross to secure the points for his team and keep them top of the table and clear of their nearest challengers Udinese.

The Champions league provided the next match, Arsenal visiting the Delle Alpi. They were the defending champions, having won the competition for the last two years, and Nick expected that his side would be well and truly tested, and he wasn't wrong. Arsenal showed their extreme quality by taking a 27th minute lead, Carlos Tevez heading home Andres Guardado's cross. They didn't manage to score again for the rest of the match, and Nick was delighted that his side managed to get a draw from the game, Dagoberto bringing them back level on 67 minutes, meaning that the side had a real good chance of progressing into the quarter finals. No more goals came from either team, and they had to settle for the 1-1 draw. An away trip to Chievo was next on the agenda, and it was another game that provided three points, a 2-1 win enough to do this, the goals coming from Dagoberto and Higuain and increasing their lead at the top of the table to 6 points. Anis Ben Hatira had started to gain regular football, and Nick had been extremely impressed with the way he was playing, and he further increased this with the opening goal in the final game of the month against Lecce, volleying home after 15 minutes. The game was settled two minutes later, Daniel Sturridge again utilising his pace and breaking free before firing across the keeper and into the bottom left hand corner to keep his side top of the table and getting ever so closer to winning the league title.

February 2009 Summary

(Serie B unless stated, Juventus scorers listed only)

Inter Milan 2-1 Juventus Gabi (83)

Juventus 2-0 Napoli Sturridge (45) Higuain (52)

Chievo 1-2 Juventus Dagoberto (48) Higuain (75)

Juventus 2-0 Lecce Ben Hatira (15) Sturridge (17)

Champions League 1st Knockout Round 1st Leg

Juventus 1-1 Arsenal Dagoberto (67)

League Position : 1st