Barzagli on the defensive

Andrea Barzagli insists that Juventus’ defensive strength this term is the result of teamwork and not just the back four.

The Old Lady have been tough to break down in recent times. They kept their third clean sheet in a row yesterday at Lecce which was also their sixth in their last eight League matches.

“The defence is doing well, but the credit also has to go to our teammates who help us,” the January 2011 signing from Wolfsburg noted.

There were question marks over the Juve rearguard at the start of the season, but they have let in only 11 goals – just one more than Udinese who have the best defensive record in the League.

Juve, who will be without the suspended Giorgio Chiellini against Cagliari, maintained top spot with Milan at the weekend thanks to a goal from Alessandro Matri at the Stadio Via Del Mare.

“We prepared well for the Lecce game, knowing the risks that could arise with their quick strikers and strong counter-attacks,” Barzagli added.

“We knew that this would be a difficult game, also because it came after the break. We gritted our teeth and emerged victorious.”