Juventus coach Claudio Ranieri has backed Torino rival Walter Novellino's decision to hide in a washing basket last week to get around a touchline ban.

Novellino is banned for today's big derby because of his actions, bit Ranieri laughed: "I thought what he did was wonderful! I would never have done it, but he's great and it takes real smarts to think of such a thing. Well done, Walter!" Torino have their injury worries, as they are without Under-21 international Alessandro Rosina, but Ranieri has other concerns.

"I would be happy if they played without Alvaro Recoba, because he can create anything at any time. If he is having a good day, he can decide a match by himself."