Paolo De Ceglie is taking nothing for granted at Juventus” data-scaytid=”2″>Juventus next season and welcomes the increased competition for places.
The youngster made 21 appearances in the League for the Bianconeri last term and also signed a new contract extension.
However, in preparing for the 2012-13 campaign, he is very much focused on working hard to stay where he is.
Paolo De Ceglie is taking nothing for granted at Juventus next season and welcomes the increased competition for places.
The youngster made 21 appearances in the League for the Bianconeri last term and also signed a new contract extension.
However, in preparing for the 2012-13 campaign, he is very much focused on working hard to stay where he is.
“We are focused and determined, we are thinking only about training, nothing else,” the wing-back told gathered reporters today.
“At Juventus one is always under discussion, every year you start again. Whilst I hope to stay here for a long time, we all know that it is difficult to be guaranteed a place here and this year will be even tougher with more competition, but we are aiming for the maximum.
“Continuity is a goal for me, to come out every year at the beginning of the season wearing this shirt and playing in my position.
“Unfortunately last season I had a small injury that meant it wasn’t possible to try and get into the Italy team. I was hoping for it because I felt that I was right there.
“Then, it went as it did, but I begin this season and hope for future opportunities.”
De Ceglie shrugged off suggestions that Pablo Armero’s rumoured arrival is a concern for him as increased competition.
“No, it is always a motivation. As I have said before, we are not prima donnas at Juve. It is right that for each role in the team there are more players and then in with intelligent sporting competition, those who will play will be those who are in better shape, who deserve it more and who at that time can give more to the team.”
The 25-year-old then reflected on how the training camp base at Valle d’Aosta is a return to his hometown where he grew up.
“For me it is great to be here in Valle d’Aosta, when I was little I came to Chatillon with my father to watch Juve’s pre-season training retreats.
“I was very small and certainly I remember seeing Del Piero, who was always one of the players I would look out for.
“Talking to my family the other day, they said how it was strange that they find I am now on the field.”