Stefano Colantuono warns Atalanta” data-scaytid=”29″>Atalanta they are “a step away from securing safety in Serie A and cannot give up now.”
Stefano Colantuono warns Atalanta they are “a step away from securing safety in Serie A and cannot give up now.”
The Orobici were promoted from Serie B last summer and immediately became favourites for relegation when hit by a six-point penalty.
This week their appeal against the penalty, awarded for Cristiano Doni’s involvement in a betting ring, was turned down by the TNAS (National Court of Arbitration for Sport).
“To be honest, I wasn’t expecting any help,” said the Coach. “I only found out about the appeal result by chance, so it was not an obsession. We must ignore all issues outside the field and focus only on doing well in the match situation.
“When we mathematically achieve our aim, I could walk all the way to the Sanctuary of Caravaggio. We hae to get our objective as soon as possible.
“This upcoming game with Cagliari is an important test for us. We are only a step away from securing safety in Serie A and cannot give up now.
“My lads have been extraordinary. Despite injuries and pressure, they reacted so well and drew on all their physical and psychological energy.”
Atalanta would already be safe now without the six-point penalty, in fact they’d be level with Catania in seventh place – ahead of Inter.
“What is in my future? Director Pierpaolo Marino said he will stay and so will I. Until they throw me out, I’m happy to remain in Bergamo.”