Andrea Barzagli delighted with Juventus return

Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli has expressed his delight after making his return from a prolonged injury-hit spell on the sidelines.

The 33-year-old had not played since the World Cup due to a series of Achilles problems, but he made his first start of the season for the Bianconeri in their 1-0 victory over Palermo on Saturday.

"It was difficult to spend so long off the field, but I am happy with the result and my performance," Barzagli told Sky Sport Italia.

"I felt good sensations. The five minutes against Sassuolo were a very emotional experience, while today I started in a venue where few opponents have won, but everyone helped me feel very confident.

"Besides, with Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini in a three-man defence, we know the movements off by heart."

Barzagli has won three Serie A titles with Juventus since his arrival from Wolfsburg in 2011.