Sinisa Mihajlovic thanked Fiorentina fans for their apology over personal insults and said Houssine Kharja won't play while ‘commuting.'
Sinisa Mihajlovic thanked Fiorentina fans for their apology over personal insults and said Houssine Kharja won't play while ‘commuting.'
The Viola Coach has been bitterly criticised by fans calling for his dismissal over the last few months, but some went too far and hurled personal insults. Viola supporters hung a banner in the training ground apologising for this and confirming their respect for him as a man.
“That was pleasing, because I have always had respect for everyone,” replied the tactician.
“The people of Florence are fair, sincere and say things to your face. Those insults were an ugly example that did not represent Florence. The situation is improving, but it also depends on results.
“I hope to do well against Chievo, then we can work over the break for international duty to be better prepared for the rest of the season.
“I spoke to Andrea Della Valle and he complimented the whole squad. Knowing he is close to the side is crucial at the moment.”
Valon Behrami has recovered from a knock and finished his ban to start, but Kharja is frozen out after refusing to move to Florence. Since the summer transfer from Inter, he has been commuting from Milan every day for training.
“I had spoken to Kharja, he said he wasn't going to do this anymore, but instead he's defending his position. He showed a lack of respect for me and all his teammates. We all have the same objective, which is to take Fiorentina into Europe, but we can't with this attitude.
“If he wants to stay at home so much, then let him stay there! Just don't expect to play for Fiorentina.”
There are reports that even a draw against Chievo might not be enough to save Mihajlovic's job.
“It's a difficult game, as they have two strikers who always cut in, but if we work as hard as them, we can bring out our best qualities. We need the mentality of a provincial club, where we all sacrifice ourselves for our teammates.
“As for my job, I have always said I am relaxed. I had reassurances from the club before the game with Genoa and I am convinced we'll do well. Of course, nobody knows the future…”