Giampaolo on Juve visit: “They’re animals but we’ll have a 12th man”

Marco Giampaolo stressed the importance of the home crowd at Marassi as he previewed the visit of champions Juventus.

“The supporters showed their passion and backing once again this morning. Our relationship with the fans gives us an edge,” began the coach, before highlighting what the Blucerchiati need to do to stop Juventus: “We have to be competitive for 95 minutes tomorrow and stay in the match.”

Giampaolo also rejected suggestions that Juventus will already have one eye on Barcelona, after drawing the Spanish giants in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

“They’re animals and hungry to win games,” said the coach. “That’s part of who they are. We have to play our own game, while keeping in mind that they’ll pick their strongest team.”

Giampaolo ended his pre-match media duties with a wry smile in response to the local press’ eagerness for team news.

“Puggioni will start along with 11 others. Why 11? Because our fans are the 12th man,” he concluded.