Causio: Pirlo needs rest to recapture magic

The World Cup winner believes that the midfield star could profit from some tactical adjustments in his game, after a fatigued start to the season

Juventus legend Franco Causio has claimed that Andrea Pirlo may need to consider a different approach to his game.

The 33-year-old was one of the Bianconeri's key players in their unbeaten 2011-12 Serie A campaign and one of the stars of Euro 2012, as Italy reached the final of the competition.

However, the creative midfielder has struggled to recapture his form of last season, with fatigue believed to be the, causing him to be rested for the victory over Chievo on Saturday.

Speaking to Sky Sport 24, Causio said: "Is Pirlo having difficulties? I think he has imposed himself. He is finding it a little tough, but you mustn't forget that he is a bit tired and needs a rest.

"Currently, he is the man who opposing teams are marking out; he is being patrolled and it is not easy for him to exert himself and have the freedom that he had last year."

The former winger also offered advice to the Italian playmaker on how he could exert his authority on the game and compared his situation to that of former Juve star Michel Platini.

"If I were Pirlo, rather than playing in front of the defence, I'd prefer to play behind the striker - Vucinic or someone else," he suggested.

"I'd want to see someone helping him out. Platini was equal to Pirlo; he was a marked man. Without [Gaetano] Scirea supporting him, he was lost in certain games."

Causio also lent his support to Sebastian Giovinco and thinks that his game could improve if he drops deeper.

"Giovinco is not a problem, but he must find the right position on the pitch. If he continues to play on the shoulders of the centre-backs, he will struggle," the 1982 World Cup winner added.

"He must push back 20 yards, pick up the ball in midfield and face the opponent square on."