Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has insisted that Carlos Tevez has been misrepresented in the media, describing the controversial forward as a humble player capable of shining in Serie A this season.
Tevez has scored in each of his first two appearances for Juve since signing during the close season, with the latest strike proving decisive in a 1-0 win over Sampdoria in Serie A yesterday.
Buffon believes that the Argentine has looked sharp and hungry since swapping Manchester for Turin, while insisting that coach Antonio Conte remains irreplaceable for the defending champions.
He told Sky Sports Italia: "Tevez has been misrepresented. He puts the good of the squad above his own ego and has incredible quality. He's a genuine champion.
"As for Conte, when there was talk of his potential exit I felt a shiver go up my spine. He is the added value of this team and an absolutely crucial element."
Juve are searching for a third successive Scudetto this season, after claiming two titles in a row since Conte took over as manager.