Vincenzo Italiano looked ahead to Fiorentina’s Conference League clash with Ferencvaros, underlining how his team ‘want an important result’.
The Viola were held to a 2-2 draw by Genk in their European opener last month and will be keen to secure all three points against Ferencvaros, who currently sit top of Group F after beating Cukaricki in their first match.
Domestically, Fiorentina have impressed and currently sit fifth in the Serie A table, winning four of their opening seven matches. Their last outing was a 3-0 win over Cagliari, giving them a slight boost ahead of their European outing against Ferencvaros.
Speaking in a press conference via TMW, Italiano first discussed his expectations for Fiorentina’s clash with Ferencvaros.
“It’s an important match because it’s the first one at home, we want an important result trying to repeat in terms of performance what we have seen in the last games, trying also to be more consistent in the match.
“It will be important for the group table, and we will have to exploit this inertia and enthusiasm of the period. They have Stankovic, an important coach, we know how dangerous they are, but there are three important points and we want to get them.”
He was asked if the Hungarian side’s slightly longer period of rest will be an advantage for them.
“I don’t think it will affect them so much, by now those who are involved in these competitions and play so much can also find ways to put players on the pitch who can make the performance.
“Twenty-four hours is not a lot, it won’t be a situation that will create excuses for us, we can be up to the task even with one less day of rest.”
The Fiorentina coach gave his thoughts on Ferencvaros coach Dejan Stankovic.
“We have often been opponents, it was a pleasure to face him as a player and a huge pleasure on the bench.
“He’s a great person who I respect a lot, we have many friends in common and I know he’s happy with the team he’s coaching.
“We have to look forward to this match, he has brought enthusiasm and ideas, I will say hello to him tomorrow.”
Italian spoke about what he’s asked of his squad.
“The only time we have delved into this match is to approach it like the last few matches. In this mini tournament we have the chance to score points, to improve the ranking.
“I want it to continue to be a Fiorentina that know what they have to do, the approach to the matches makes the difference whether we talk about the league or Europe, remembering that in the cup nobody gives up anything and that the teams have a different mentality, always staying in the game.
“From the point of view of mentality and attention we will have to be ready, I have asked this of the team.”
Finally, Italiano was asked about the idea of seeing the Supercoppa Italiana and other games abroad.
“With all the commitments we have, thinking about those matches is premature. Going to play abroad is now an opportunity, even for those who don’t know a lot about Italian football.
“We’re going to show what we can do around the world, we’re going to fight for this trophy but we’ll think about it later because we’re busy.”