Juventus are desperate to avoid a repeat of last season’s slow start to the Champions League when they host Malmo tonight, according to defender Patrice Evra.
The Turin giants failed to win any of their opening four games last year and, with just one triumph in six matches, failed to progress to the knockout phase.
Evra, who joined the Serie A champions in July after eight-and-a-half years at Manchester United, believes a strong start to the group stage is vital.
“Our aim is to do much better than last season,” the French left-back said. “We have great players in the team and we want to have a starring role. It is important to get off to a good start.”
The hosts will be bolstered by the return of defender Giorgio Chiellini, who missed Saturday’s 2-0 triumph against Udinese through suspension.
However, midfield pair Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal are sidelined through injury.
Malmo boss Age Hareide added: “The important thing now is to not settle for just taking part. We want to compete and do the best we can.”
The visitors are without defender Ricardinho and midfielder Simon Thern through injury.