Juventus manager Max Allegri says contract extension will be signed soon

Juventus created plenty of chances but were only able to put one away, and in the Mario Mandzukic's header was the difference between the Bianconeri and visitors Empoli. The home crowd roared the Old Lady on all game long, probably grateful that the interminable international break was finally over and Juve were back in action.

Empoli actually had more possession than Juve, quite a feat at Juventus Stadium, especially, but will also be very grateful for goalie Lukasz Skorupski who kept the score respectable for them.

Massimiliano Allegri was pleased with the mental strength that the team showed.

"Winning games is absolutely not easy and it becomes even tougher towards the end of the season, especially as Empoli are a side that play good football.

"At this stage of the season the results count for even more and I have to compliment the lads, because winning 20 out of the last 21 rounds is no mean feat.

"The first half was a little more disorganized, but we did better after the break. We need that mental strength that the lads showed this evening.

"There was a moment when Alvaro Morata and Paul Pogba were playing as individuals and at this stage any little error can be costly. We have to play simple and improve in controlling the ball."

Juve welcomed back three core players from injuries: Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini. However, Chiellini tweaked his persistent calf problem yet again and had to leave the game.

"Chiellini was fine beforehand and we'll evaluate this latest development, but hope it's nothing serious."

Allegri's management of youngsters like Daniele Rugani has been impressive to say the least, imploring that the fans be patient with the youngster when he felt Rugani wasn't ready to play at the senior level.

"He did well, like the others, but young players must be given the time to gain experience without pressure."

Napoli sit six points behind the Bianconeri now, and go into their game at Udinese tomorrow knowing that a mistake at this stage could be deathly blow.

"Napoli are right there and if they don't slip up then we have to maintain this average to stay on top. We must try to win the fifth consecutive Scudetto and then we've also got the Coppa Italia Final with Milan."

And then finally, in response to the question about the contract extension that has been on the fans' minds for some time now,  Allegri gave some positive signal that it'll happen sooner than later.

"When we have a free afternoon I'll meet with the club and talk. I have another year left on my contract anyway, they are happy and so am I. When we meet up, we'll sign the paperwork."