Trio have Juve role to play

Juventus insist that Alessandro Del Piero, Milos Krasic and Giorgio Chiellini all have a key part to play in 2011-12.

Del Piero was only used as a very late substitute on Saturday against Genoa at the end of a week when it was announced that this would be his last season as a player in Turin.

Krasic and Chiellini, meanwhile, have struggled to perform with any sort of consistency under new boss Antonio Conte so far.

“Alessandro is the most important player in Juventus’ history and we know that,” director general Beppe Marotta told Juventus Channel.

“Last week President Andrea Agnelli urged the shareholders to thank Del Piero for his efforts. From the outside it was considered as the end of Alessandro’s career.

“He has a great sense of belonging, but his contract is due to run out in June 2012 and the situation hasn’t changed.

“The two of them have known each other for years, they appreciate each other and when they met in Vinovo they agreed on the episode being exploited by media.

“Del Piero has provided all the fans with great emotions and he deserves only praise. The player’s use depends on the Coach, he needs to pick the best and there’s no influence.”

Turning to Krasic, he was dropped from the starting line-up against Genoa, while Chiellini struggled to impress.

“Krasic is improving, he’s been great over the past few years and has special qualities,” Marotta continued.

“His performances so far this year, however, are not level with his ability. We need to get him back to his best.

“Boss Antonio Conte’s good at making the most out of his resources and will find the right way to bring him back.

“Chiellini is an international player, he’s often carried Juventus in games. He might have had difficulty in certain cases, but he’s not on trial.

“In any case, we have the third strongest Serie A defence behind Udinese and Siena.”

Juve have conceded five goals in seven League games so far following the 2-2 at the weekend.