The Juventus coach Del Neri has played down the importance of the match between Lazio and Juventus. Lazio and Juventus occupy third and fourth place respectively in Serie A - with the former three points ahead of their Sunday opponents.

The Romans have been in a rich vein of form this season with a 3-1 win over Inter Milan last weekend ample evidence of their potential. While pundits are casting their clash with the Bianconeri a pivotal point in the season, Juve coach Del Neri does not think so.

In comments quoted by AP, he said: "I do not think that the game against Lazio is a fork in the season.

"It will be important on a psychological level, but the league has just started."

Mikel Arteta and Vincent Kompany have been linked to the club in the next window.