Juventus GM Jean-Claude Blanc has hailed the club's achievement in securing Champions League football on their return to Serie A this season.

"We couldn't have got here faster," Blanc enthused. "From Serie B to the Champions League is a difficult journey, but it has been a good one. And we haven't finished yet because there are three games left.

"We have to thank the players and the coaching staff. I never had doubts because work pays off.

"I also want to thank the fans who have given us so much since the pre-season training camp at Pinzolo.

"We have been inspired by the love of the fans, like Muhammad Ali in Kinshasa.

"We will keep trying to win until the end because Juve are Juve. Second place is possible mathematically. We can only hope that this sport has reserved another surprise for us."