Juventus GM Beppe Marotta insists Antonio Conte's suspension has hurt the club - despite being top of the table.

Conte is coming to the end of his ban.

"The absence of Conte is something that weighs heavy on us, but his professionalism and that of his backroom staff enables the team to be fully prepared for our games," Marotta said.

"We suffer without Antonio, but this gives everyone greater stimulation. The squad is our strength and this is also evident by the fact that 12 different players have hit the target so far this season."