Del Piero, who turned 34 yesterday, celebrated by scoring his team's opener in the 2-0 win against Chievo, a result which lifted the Turin side to sixth in the Serie A standings.

The Juve captain has been pivotal in their last three encounters, including last week´s 2-0 win away to Real Madrid in the Champions League, where he struck a brace to ensure the Bianconeri qualified for the last 16.

"Alex is magical right now," admitted Ranieri.

"To have a great team and a great captain in Del Piero was the key to our success last year and is the reason for our recent achievements.

"My team is willing to fight but then there's the soul of the champion that comes out, that of Del Piero.

"He has always been our leader, our captain, and he is giving so much energy to this team.

"When he gets a chance he scores and that is good news for us while it also gives the team morale."

Del Piero, who was last season´s Serie A top scorer with 21 goals, has struck three times in the domestic competition but has already notched four more in the Champions League.

"I am happy," said the Italy striker.

"The important thing is that I continue to play like this."

Juve host Genoa on Thursday looking to reduce their three-point deficit to Serie A leaders Inter Milan.