19 October 2007, by Sean Gillen

Tiago threatens Juventus walk-out in January

Midfielder unhappy at being overlooked

Portuguese international Tiago says he will leave Italian giants Juventus during the winter transfer window if his situation at the club has not improved.

The former Benfica and Chelsea midfielder moved to the Stadio Olimpico from French champions Lyon over the summer as the club’s most expensive recruit after their promotion back to Serie A.

Manager Claudio Ranieri showed little patience with the 26-year-old after some unconvincing pre-season form, and Tiago saw himself reduced to a substitute’s role almost immediately.

The 26-year-old has been criticised by both fans and the press in Italy, and was recently included in the Gazzetta Dello Sport’s team of early season flops.

“If things carry on like this I’ll leave in January,” Tiago admitted on Friday. “I’ve spoken to Ranieri and told him that I’m not happy because this isn’t what I came here for.

“So far my time with Juve has been a disappointment. I thought I’d be a first-choice player, but it has been the exact opposite and my time here hasn’t been easy.

“Initially I admit that I felt tired, but I got back into shape by the time the season started and the boss has still preferred other players.”