Bonucci: Chiellini key, but…

Leonardo Bonucci has failed to blame the absence of Giorgio Chiellini for Juventus’ stuttering start to 2013.

After their shock loss at home to Sampdoria, the Old Lady only collected a 1-1 draw at Parma on Sunday afternoon.

In both games, the goals conceded came from the area in which Italian international Chiellini would usually occupy.

“Giorgio is an essential part of the team, but those who have deputised for him are doing a good job,” the former Bari man noted.

“It’s just bad luck. Parma did well to hit us on the break on one occasion, whereas against Sampdoria, it happened twice…”

While Bonucci was unhappy with the display against Doria, he was content with their performance at the Stadio Tardini.

“We had the wrong approach in the second half against Samp and it was an important lesson for us,” he continued.

“We were more careful against Parma, but that’s football for you – there are times when you don’t get the results and don’t come away with the points.

“Now we have to concentrate more and rediscover our edge because Lazio and Napoli are on our heels. But we still have an advantage and require hunger and humility to increase the gap again.”