Rafa Benitez is keeping his Napoli line-up under wraps against Torino, discussed reinforcements and replied to Sir Alex Ferguson.
The Partenopei take on Torino on Sunday in the brunchtime match at 11.30am UK time, click here for a preview.
Rafa Benitez is keeping his Napoli line-up under wraps against Torino, discussed reinforcements and replied to Sir Alex Ferguson.
The Partenopei take on Torino on Sunday in the brunchtime match at 11.30am UK time, click here for a preview.
“We know every game is worth three points and we are two games away from first place,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
“We cannot look at the table with concern, but just keep an eye on what we do week by week. At the end of the day we will be up there competing for the top places.
“Juventus are strong, but we’ll see in February what position they are in. Roma, just like Inter, are strong and have the advantage of not playing in Europe, but there’s a long way to go and we cannot predict what will happen.
“Torino can pass the ball around, but at the same time are also strong on the counter-attack. It will not be an easy game and Alessio Cerci is not the only threat, as well as an experienced Coach. They could’ve lost to Inter in that 3-3 draw last week, but played well.”
President Aurelio De Laurentiis announced he wants to buy three world class reinforcements in January.
“I spoke to the President and he told me he’s satisfied with the squad,” assured Benitez. “We agree Napoli are open to buying top level players.
“I won’t name names, but I always tell the club we are on the look-out for players all year round. I’ve often heard people say we are missing this or that player, but we are just looking for players to improve a squad we are already very happy with.”
Known for his squad rotation, Benitez is keeping tight-lipped about his line-up for tomorrow.
“I will confide in my pillow at night… It’s good to have so many talented options at my disposal, as Dries Mertens did very well, but so did Jose Maria Callejon, Lorenzo Insigne and Goran Pandev. Gonzalo Higuain needs a little more time to be at 100 per cent, but he is feeling better. I often speak to Gonzalo and I tell you he’ll score at least 20 goals this season.
“Does Marek Hamsik have a problem finding his position? He scored five goals, so I don’t think he’s going that badly… He is a very important professional for us and can always do better, as he has the quality, but we are satisfied with his work.”
Benitez was also asked about the attack from former Manchester United manager Ferguson, who called him a ‘silly man’ in his autobiography.
“I will not respond. Everyone knows what I have done.”