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Juventus v Fulham Europa League Preview

Juventus ace Alessandro Del Piero has given his most clear intention that the Bianconeri will overcome Fulham in their Europa League clash today. After overcoming Ajax in the last fixture, Juventus will be looking to build on their improving form in the competition.

After starting the season strongly, Juve suffered a series of defeats that left fans baying for coach Ciro Ferarra’s blood. The beleaguered Italian was finally sacked after the club officials patience ran out. Alberto Zaccheroni was the man tasked with restoring Juve to its former glory and he has faired pretty well if you ask me.

Now faced with an “easy” fixture against English club Fulham, Zaccheroni will probably be keen on sealing the cottagers fate tonight at the Stadio Olympico in Turin.

With key players Buffon, Chiellini, Amauri, Chimenti and Giovinco injured, Zaccheroni wil most probably field a 4-3-1-2 formation. Del Piero and Trezeguet will be in attack. The speedy Brazilian Diego will play behind the two forwards and in front of a three man midfield which includes Marchisio, Melo and Sissoko.

Grosso, Cannavaro, Grygera and Legrottaglie willmake up the defense while Mannider will be between the posts. Juventus should not underestimate Fulham. They might not have a strong European record but they do have players who can change the game in a split second.

Duff, Zamora, Etuhu and Davies are a few of them. The bulk of their stars remain unavailable for this fixture with Clint Dempsey, John Panstil and Andrew Johnson out with injuries. Fulham will play the common 4-4-2 formation with Zamora and Gera upfront and Duff, Davies Etuhu and Murphy in midfield.

Fulham’s back line will include Shorey, Hangeland, Hughes and Baird. Their outstanding goalie Mark Shwarzer will be between the posts. My prediction is a 2-0 win for Juventus.

Photo credit: Rosesurfinia4480