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Conte: 'A good result'

Friday February 21 2014

Antonio Conte explained his squad rotation and noted beating Trabzonspor 2-0 was “a good result” in the Europa League.

Daniel Osvaldo and Paul Pogba got the goals in the first leg victory in Turin.

“The 2-0 is certainly a good result going into the second leg,” the Coach told Sport Mediaset.

“We had several scoring opportunities, but either we were imprecise or their goalkeeper did well. Trabzonspor had finished ahead of Lazio in the group phase, so were not to be underestimated.

“We did well, but there is still another game to play. We got too stretched out in the second half when pushing hard for another goal, risking something at the back by fielding three strikers.

“I needed a response and I got it on the field, because if we want to carry on in two competitions then we need everyone,” continued Conte.

“I looked at the fixture list and, in the most optimistic reading, we’d play 16 games in 52 days. That would destroy players if I always used the same ones. We have to involve the entire squad and try to help those who haven’t played as much get their match fitness.

“I don’t know any other way of going forward.”

Among his changes tonight, Conte introduced Mauricio Isla and Federico Peluso on the wings.

“We had to make more of the right flank, but in the second half I preferred to introduce another striker to risk something.”

Sebastian Giovinco was given a warm welcome as a substitute just days after Conte raged at the crowd for jeering him.

“I had no doubts on how he would be greeted. The Juventus fans love their players. He did well on the field today, helping his teammates. All Juventus players must be supported by the fans.”

Source: Football - Italia

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