Vincenzo Montella admits Sampdoria” data-scaytid=”3″>Sampdoria have “amazed everyone” this season and expects a tough test for Fiorentina” data-scaytid=”4″>Fiorentina.
The two teams go head-to-head on Sunday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
Vincenzo Montella admits Sampdoria have “amazed everyone” this season and expects a tough test for Fiorentina.
The two teams go head-to-head on Sunday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“Samp amazed everyone with their solidity and results. They are a very practical team and also a dangerous one thanks to their Coach,” Montella said in a Press conference.
“There is a strong bond between Mihajlovic and myself made of professional and personal respect. I consider him my friend.
“There are also players who are excellent on set plays. The pitch won’t be in great shape and they will try to stop us playing, so it will be difficult for us to get the superiority.
“I am evaluating a few changes, but we will adapt to our opponents more than to the playing surface. I choose between a three or four-man defence depending on the situation, but there’s a very slight difference.”
Khouma Babacar bagged a brace in the 3-0 victory over Udinese on Wednesday, so could he be used alongside Mario Gomez?
“It’s premature to discuss that. These are two fairly similar players, but I do think there’s a good chance of making them co-exist. However, they haven’t played together yet and don’t know each other well.
“There is no chance of Gomez starting this match, but I have to say this is his best moment since he came to Florence. We are close to his ‘real’ comeback.
“I have been particularly impressed by Babacar’s mentality, as he is going through this experience with a very natural attitude. Mind you, he hasn’t achieved anything yet, as there are players of his age who have done more.”
Borja Valero had been dropped recently, but appears to be back in the starting XI on a regular basis.
“He is untouchable in terms of professional behaviour, but it can happen to suffer a small dip in form,” continued Montella.
“If at times the easiest things don’t go your way, it can affect your confidence, but he’s always been up to our expectations in every other way. David Pizarro has completely healed now, as when he doesn’t train, he actually plays better.”