Vincenzo Italiano was overjoyed following the late comeback win over Spezia, although he highlighted the importance of maintaining focus.
The Viola took a 1-0 lead in the first half thanks to Krzysztof Piatek, who made up for missing a penalty earlier in the match by scoring the opening goal. Despite their dominance, they couldn’t find a second, and eventually Spezia found an equaliser. A Sofyan Amrabat goal in the 89th minute salvaged the three points for the Viola, who now sit one point behind Roma in the league table.
Speaking to Sky Sports Italia after the 2-1 win over Spezia, Italiano first discussed the importance of consistency and focus.
“It’s legitimate to dream, the league table but we’re not able to have consistency and this is a problem. This risks making us lose contact with the big teams.”
The Fiorentina coach then commented on the team’s dominance in the match and how the late winner was deserved.
“We created a lot, I think in the end it was right to get the goal through Amrabat, who had played a great game. The mistake could have tainted it but the goal rewards him, I’m happy for him.
“If he hadn’t scored I would have thrown my ears at him. A guy like him can’t help but feel the danger on those occasions, he knows it well, we work for that.”
He discussed the reception he received from the Spezia fans. He spent two years in charge of the Ligurian side before leaving last summer for the Viola.
“They tried to label me, I made mistakes, but I’m not that kind of person.”
Finally, Italiano spoke about Fiorentina’s attack following the departure of Dusan Vlahovic.
“Piatek is more advanced than Arthur, he arrived earlier and knows Italy. Arthur can score in all ways, let’s give him time. Piatek however is now further ahead. Ikone also needs time, they are two quality investments and they will grow.
“I’m convinced that even if we’ve lost Vlahovic the team will continue to propose and grind out play. We made a false step with Lazio, it happens to us after the break, and we have to restart and react, looking for consistency.”
#Italiano: "Avrei tirato le orecchie ad #Amrabat se non avesse segnato. Lecito sognare ma non troviamo continuità" #Fiorentina https://t.co/P9futgj16o
— Fiorentinanews.com (@Fiorentinanews) February 14, 2022