Juventus vs Fulham Match Preview
Juventus has not had the best of luck at home against English sides in recent years, but will hope to rewrite the history books when Roy Hodgson makes his return to Italy. This will be the first European link between the two sides. Juventus has lost all of their knockout ties against English teams since they defeated Liverpool in the 1985 European Champion Clubs' Cup final. Fulham has held an average record with two wins, two draw and two losses in their six European away games this season.
Juventus has made considerable strides in Series A trying to compensate for a mediocre start. They got a much needed win over Fiorentina this past weekend. The Italians will be looking to be play some ruff neck football against their opponents. They will be missing a player who embodies that type of spirit on the field. Giorgio Chiellini will be out after injuring his left thigh. Look for the midfield tandem of Melo and Sissoko to take control of the game. The Brazilian Diego will be taking players on and looking to put the ball in space for his front line. Juventus doesn't have any stand out performers in the Europa League thus far. Don't be surprised if you see a number of players try to get on the score sheet early. The Italian squad is stacked with scoring power waiting to erupt (Trezeguest, Iaquinta, Del Piero).
The Cottagers will look to their boss Roy Hodgson for insight. He had spent a period of time in Italy managing Inter Milan in the late 90's. Fulham is competing in the Barclays Premier League, FA Cup and UEFA Europa League. Simon Davies, one of Fulham's most loyal players, weighed in on his team's approach to the game. “We’ve got to believe in ourselves because we’ve had some really good results lately. We’ll play our game and remain solid. We know it’s going to be a very tough game but we also know we’re capable of getting a result." The English boys are ranking atop of some statistical sheets in the Europa League this season. However, those categories are most fouls committed by one player (Bobby Zamora) and yellow cards received (Johnathan Greening 4). This fixture may be summed up by Fulham's talent that resides outside of England. All seven of their goals against Italian team have been scored by non-British players. Zamora may look to change these facts and get his team on the score sheet early. He has proven to be the go to guy upfront with great control, strength and power. Danny Murphy wants follow an exciting Feburary with an even better March. Getting a good result in Turin would be the first step.
