Vincenzo Montella hopes this weekend Fiorentina” data-scaytid=”3″>Fiorentina can close further on third place, but knows Torino winger Alessio Cerci can damage his former club.
Vincenzo Montella hopes this weekend Fiorentina can close further on third place, but knows Torino winger Alessio Cerci can damage his former club.
Cerci arrived in Turin on a co-ownership deal over the summer and is eager to remain, especially as his rapport with the Viola supporters has always been very tense.
“He is a very talented player with enormous potential,” said Coach Montella in his Press conference.
“If we sold half his contract to Torino, it’s because we thought it would increase his overall market value, and that has proved to be the case. There are no regrets, as staying with us he might not have improved to this degree. He is a resource for us.
“Torino do not just focus on defending themselves and they play excellent football. They have a good cushion from the relegation zone, even if in Italy the third team to go down is often among those considered safe in February.
“What do I envy Giampiero Ventura? His height,” laughed Montella. “He is a complete Coach, one of the first in Italy to propose starting moves from defence and even the goalkeeper.”
The Viola are four points adrift of Milan in the third Champions League spot, but this weekend could take advantage of the Rossoneri’s trip to Juventus.
“We are having a great campaign, but must also consolidate a place in the Europa League, as it is all still to play for. It would be a shame to lose that, so we must keep our feet on the ground.
“It is better that the atmosphere is celebratory and full of enthusiasm, but we must be intelligent in dealing with these situations and aware it’s going to be difficult tomorrow. We need the support of our fans for the full 90 minutes, as there’s no such thing as an easy game in football.
“I think in the sprint finish what really counts are physical and psychological sharpness. I think the team is in good shape in that regard, as we’ve shown no signs of losing ground.”
Nenad Tomovic returns from suspension and Manuel Pasqual sits out a ban, but there are reports Stevan Jovetic could be in the squad much quicker than expected.
“He didn’t train with the team, but we’ll see how he does today. He is in more or less the same condition as before the Milan match. Adem Ljajic has a little pain, but I think he’s ready.”