'Text message ruined my Juventus career'

Former Juventus striker Vincent Pericard claims his career with the Bianconeri was ruined by an accidental text message to Roberto Bettega’s girlfriend.

Pericard was considered one of Europe’s brightest prospects when he joined Juve from Saint-Etienne in 2000, but the Frenchman subsequently became a journeyman in English football, joining Portsmouth two years later.

It was a move that the 36-year-old saw as punishment, given he did not know his English tutor was the partner of an Old Lady legend before he invited her out for a drink.

“My entire life outside of Juve has been scandalous,” The Sun quotes him as telling Camfoot.

“Myself and two other French players at the club were having Italian lessons with a beautiful tutor.

“One evening we were at home and I sent the teacher a message inviting her round for a drink with us.

“An hour later the phone rang. It was Roberto Bettega, the Juventus vice-chairman. He told us off and asked us who we thought we were to send messages to his girlfriend.

“We didn't know she was his girlfriend. We were hauled in for talks, and they loaned me out to Portsmouth.

“It was terrible as things had been going so well for me at Juventus. I ruined my career with Juve all because of an unfortunate text.

“I have no doubt that without that happening, my life would have been totally different.”