Eusebio Di Francesco keeps a close eye on Fiorentina midfielder Gaetano Castrovilli and warns Sampdoria must “start strong.”
It kicks off on Wednesday at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
Eusebio Di Francesco keeps a close eye on Fiorentina midfielder Gaetano Castrovilli and warns Sampdoria must “start strong.”
It kicks off on Wednesday at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“The players might change compared to the win over Torino, but we absolutely must not change our attitude, as that is what will get us through this season,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
Di Francesco risked the sack before a scraped 1-0 win over Torino thanks to Manolo Gabbiadini’s goal.
“I liked the way that, even in the most difficult moments, we stayed in the game and never got stretched out. We suffered together and tried to apply training ground routines to the match situation.
“Our balance was what allowed us to win the match and we’ve got to keep that going even during difficult moments of the game when we’re under pressure, something that didn’t happen in the first three rounds.”
Samp are up against a Fiorentina side fresh from stalemates with Juventus and Atalanta.
“In my view, Fiorentina are not getting the results they deserve so far this season,” continued Di Francesco.
“Thy have found a player who will be very useful for the Italy squad in future, as Gaetano Castrovilli has what it takes to do everything. There are also naturally leaders both in and off the pitch, like Ribery. It is once again essential we start strong and build on the attitude we saw against Napoli, not consider it a one-off.”
This match will be a special reunion for Di Francesco and Viola boss Vincenzo Montella.
“Montella is like a brother to me, we had ups and downs, but grew up together in the Empoli youth academy.”