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Juventus to bench Asamoah for Barcelona showdown?

Ghana international Kwadwo Asamoah is likely to start from the bench when Juventus host Barcelona in the Uefa Champions League on Tuesday, according to coach Massimiliano Allegri.

The Black Star has been overlooked in Juve's last two matches in preference for Alex Sandro at left-back, and may have to wait until Saturday's league trip to Pescara to make a return to the starting XI.

The Old Lady make a return to the quarterfinal of the elite competition after suffering a last 16 elimination at the hands of Bayern Munich last season.

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“In defence, Alex Sandro and Kwadwo Asamoah are both vying for starting berths at left-back," Allegri said, as reported by the club's official website.

"Both are in great shape, but Alex Sandro has been rested recently and needs some game time.

“These matches are always stern psychological tests, but they need to be approached with calm and serenity.

“We need to show Barcelona a certain degree of respect, whilst believing that we have what it takes to beat them.”

Asamoah has made two appearances in the Champions League this season, in addition to 13 Serie outings. 

The Accra-born also has three Coppa Italia games to his credit.

The utility player, who joined Juve from Udinese in 2012, is gradually warming himself back into shape after suffering injury setback in the last two seasons.

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