Genoa vs Juventus preview - Conte dismisses Juve crisis rumours
Posted Sunday, March 11, 2012 by PA
Juventus coach Antonio Conte has brushed aside rumours of a crisis despite his team's failure to win a game in recent weeks.
The Turin giants visit Genoa on Sunday looking for their first win since February 18. Having led the Serie A standings for several months earlier this season, Juventus fans had high expectations that this could be their year.
However, recent results have cast doubts on whether Juve can keep up with AC Milan in the Scudetto race.
Wednesday's 1-1 result at Bologna was Juve's fifth draw in their last six league games.
"I don't think we are dropping off the pace and I don't think it's right to talk about Juve losing momentum," Conte said.
"We are two points behind league leaders AC Milan with 12 games remaining and my group never gives up.
"Perhaps it is for that reason that we are still unbeaten this season.
"I can assure everyone that my team is united and ready for Sunday's game."
Conte will have to watch the encounter from the stands at the Luigi Ferraris stadium as he serves a one-match touchline ban.
The visitors are still without injured defenders Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli while defender Leonardo Bonucci is suspended.
Rivals Genoa will be bolstered by the return of striker Alberto Gilardino this weekend.
The Italy international has been sidelined for the last month with a muscular injury but will lead the Grifoni's attack on Sunday.
Without Gilardino, Pasquale Marino's Genoa have mustered just two points from their last five league games.
Genoa have lost just one of their last six league games at home but know they face a stern test on Sunday.
"Juventus is not in a crisis," Genoa captain Marco Rossi said.
"We watched their game against Bologna and there were no signs that Conte's team is struggling."
Photos
More»
Meet Jude Bellingham's stunning girlfriend Laura
Thursday April 25 2024
[PICTURE SPECIAL] Man Utd 4 - 2 Sheffield United
Thursday April 25 2024
[PICTURE SPECIAL] Arsenal 5-0 Chelsea
Wednesday April 24 2024
Your Say