Conte a true champion, says Pessotto

01/12/2012 6:10:00 AM

The Juventus legend has given praise to the trainer ahead of his return to the sidelines, reflecting on the tactician's achievements on and off the pitch

Former Juventus star Gianluca Pessotto has hailed coach Antonio Conte, who is set to make his return to the sidelines in early December.

The trainer had been accused of not reporting leads regarding a match-fixing scandal in which 15 Italian clubs were involved during the 2011–12 season, leading to the Juve boss' temporary suspension from hands-on coaching.

Pessotto took the time to back his former team-mate, reflecting on his development and the success he has had during his career.

"I was hoping that Antonio could become the same sort of manager as he was a player," he told Sky Sports Italia. "And he certainly has - he has it all.

"Antonio has a winning mentality and great experience - these are the qualities that he had on the field.

"All that hard work has helped him become a true champion, as a coach and a player."

Conte will be on the sidelines again for the clash with Palermo on December 9.

Prior to that, there is a derby against Torino waiting for the Bianconeri on December 2 followed by the club's final Champions League group game against Shakhtar Donetsk, in which a draw is needed to secure qualification into the last 16.

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