Juve star Vlahovic dismisses transfer speculation
Dusan Vlahovic has promised to deliver all he can for Juventus and dismissed transfer speculation after an inspired display from the bench in his side's remarkable Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund.
Juve scored twice in stoppage time to seal a 4-4 draw at Allianz Stadium, where all eight goals came in a frantic second half.
Vlahovic, heavily linked with a move away from Juve throughout the summer, came off the bench to not only score twice, but also tee up Lloyd Kelly's 96th-minute equaliser with a sublime cross.
The Serbia international has scored six goals in his last nine Champions League appearances, while he became only the second substitute for them to score twice in a game in the competition after David Trezeguet against Celtic in October 2001.
Vlahovic has scored four goals in as many appearances this season, with all of those coming as a substitute.
He is content to play any role that Igor Tudor requires of him, whether as a starter or a sub.
"It is up to the coach to choose who plays, I work hard every day in training and am ready to do what I am asked, I am at the disposal of the team," Vlahovic said.
"I've been a starter for most of my career and have always scored goals. Nowadays with five substitutions, those who come off the bench are increasingly important.
"Of course everyone loves to start, but I respect the choices of the coach and try to deliver when called upon."
AC Milan was among the reported suitors for the 25 year-old this summer, but a move away from Juve ultimately failed to materialise.
Vlahovic, though, insisted much of the transfer speculation was wide of the mark.
"It has not been an easy time for me, there was talk every day, many things that I can say now 99 percent of which was nowhere close to reality.
"That can disturb a person, but I found strength in this and every day you must prove yourself, to always be hungry. I am never satisfied, so today I scored two goals and provided an assist, but I wanted a third.
"The expectations are always high for myself and that pushes me on. I play for a marvellous team, one of the most important clubs in the world, and I cannot complain. I just have to keep going.
"Naturally, there is criticism when a striker doesn't score goals. I used to struggle more with that when I was younger, but I am maturing and improving, I'm learning to deal with that better and believe I can continue to improve. I have to train harder than anyone and be ready when called upon."
