Roma Coach Rudi Garcia says more must be done to protect players, staff and officials in Italian football.
Giallorossi director general Mauro Baldissoni reacted furiously this week after the Coach was banned and the club fined for the aftermath of the Lupi’s win at Genoa.
Baldissoni pointed the finger at Genoa for failing to protect players from objects being thrown from the Marassi crowd, and Garcia today echoed those words, as well as criticising his ban.
Roma Coach Rudi Garcia says more must be done to protect players, staff and officials in Italian football.
Giallorossi director general Mauro Baldissoni reacted furiously this week after the Coach was banned and the club fined for the aftermath of the Lupi’s win at Genoa.
Baldissoni pointed the finger at Genoa for failing to protect players from objects being thrown from the Marassi crowd, and Garcia today echoed those words, as well as criticising his ban.
“In 18 months we’ve felt like we were in danger at least twice,” Garcia seethed in a Press conference ahead of his team’s clash with Milan.
“This should not be the case in one stadium. The first priority should be to protect the referee, the players and the staff.
“You [Italians] have a great country, it’s a very beautiful country. We mustn’t make comparisons between what happens within football and what happens outside.
“I can only talk about football, I’m not in charge, I’m not responsible for the organisation of football.
“I have to adapt to the rules, even if they can seem strange sometimes.
“To be judged and then sentenced to a two game ban because of the statement of someone who isn’t an official, without even listening to the person who is being accused is something I’ve never seen before.
“Do we feel persecuted? It’s not about sports, like what happened in Genoa.
“I have nothing to say. I have no opinion, I don’ t care.
“Our director general has spoken earlier this week, I have nothing to add.
“I’ve made a statement, talk to the director general if you want to get Roma’s feelings.”
As well as appealing the ban for their Coach, the capital club are also challenging the suspension of Jose Holebas, but Garcia insists it doesn’t matter whether it is the Greek or Ashley Cole who starts tomorrow.
“Let's wait and see what happens this afternoon [with the appeal].
“I'm not short of options. I'm relaxed, I know that whoever plays will do well. I have complete faith in the player I am going to field.”
Milan’s dangerman is likely to be Jeremy Menez, with the Frenchman having scored eight goals in 15 Serie A games this season, and Garcia is well aware of his compatriot’s abilities.
“I know him very well, he’s a talented player,” the Roma Coach cautioned.
“He’s French, he’s been part of the national team.
“He’s capable of incredible play, he’s an unpredictable player. When he gets the ball you never know what’s going to happen.
“We’ll have to be at our best to make sure he doesn’t have a good game.”