Conte wins praise from former team-mate

Ciro Ferrara has praised former team-mate Antonio Conte for reviving the fortunes of Juventus.

The Turin-based giants are top of Serie A and are the only side to make an unbeaten start to the campaign, winning nine and drawing seven of their 16 league games.

The form revival has been largely attributed to the influence of Conte, who was appointed in May after the sacking of Luigi Delneri.

Ferrara – at team-mate of Conte’s at the club in their playing days – had himself a stint at the helm of Juventus, and is now in charge of Italy’s Under-21 squad.

“What Conte has done in his short career is in full view of everyone,” Ferrara told Tuttosport.

“He has won two promotions to Serie A (with Bari and Siena) and he has made an impression with his desire, commitment and determination.”

“He is confirming himself with Juventus and I’m happy. The Bianconeri have returned to the levels that they should be competing at.”

Juventus return to Serie A action on January 8 when they travel to Lecce.