Chiellini: Conte will give us a boost

Giorgio Chiellini believes that Antonio Conte’s return to the Juventus bench next month will provide a huge boost to the reigning Serie A champions.

The 43-year-old is serving a touchline ban for failing to report an instance of match-fixing during his spell in charge of Siena, but will take charge of Juve again ahead of their match against Palermo on December 9.

“He is the person who has changed the team over the past year and a half. I initially thought his absence would be less problematic,” Chiellini stated at a press conference.

“We work with him throughout the entire week and prepare for the games in the best possible way. But there are things that you cannot plan for and the coach is important in certain situations.

“His return to the bench will give the team a boost.”

The defender also had his say about the war of words between Conte and Antonio Cassano, and is not impressed with the Inter forward’s comments about his club.

“The coach’s morality cannot be called into question. Their paths have never crossed and we will try and beat him on the pitch,” he said.

“I think Cassano has missed the boat as far as Juventus are concerned. I don’t know if it is his choice or not, but at his age there aren’t any more chances to play for Juventus.”

The Turin giants are preparing for Saturday’s Serie A match at home against Lazio.