Openda ready ´when called upon´ after ending Juventus goal drought

Lois Openda says he will always try to be ready for Juventus “when I am called upon”, after opening his tally for the Bianconeri in midweek.

The Belgium international was on target during Juve’s 3-2 victory over Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League on Tuesday.

It was Openda’s first goal for the club in 12 appearances since arriving from RB Leipzig on a season-long loan in September.

The 25-year-old was delighted to finally get off the mark and was thankful for the support he received while struggling to open his account.

“It hasn’t been easy because I hadn’t scored, but I’m grateful for the support from the club and my family,” he said. “I know I’m at one of the most important teams, and I know what I have to do.

“I’m ready for any chance I get to play. [On Tuesday] it came, and I scored. I’m happy with my first goal, but the most important thing was the victory. We managed to bring home this success together.

“I have always had everyone’s support, I know what I have to do and what I can do to help the team. I succeeded with everyone’s help. I will always try to be ready when I am called upon.”

It was Juventus’ first win in this season’s Champions League, and they will look to build on that momentum when they host 14th-place Cagliari in Serie A on Saturday.

And Luciano Spalletti was pleased to see the pressure lifted from the shoulders of his side, who are seventh in the Serie A table and seven points behind leaders Roma.

“It’s not about choices, it’s also about ensuring the whole squad develops,” he said. “I am happy [with Tuesday’s win] because, in the locker room, I saw happy faces, or at least more relaxed ones.

“Players are people, too, and they suffer when things don’t go well. It’s not like those who suggest they are laissez-faire.”

Next up for the Bianconeri #JuveCagliaripic.twitter.com/UPKhjyztWX

— JuventusFC