Vincenzo Montella promised Sampdoria will prepare for the derby with Genoa “like a Cup Final.”
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 UK time (13.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“This is an important game, even more so for us considering the table,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
“I’ve experienced many derbies, in other cities too, but this game has to be prepared like a Cup Final.
Vincenzo Montella promised Sampdoria will prepare for the derby with Genoa “like a Cup Final.”
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 UK time (13.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“This is an important game, even more so for us considering the table,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
“I’ve experienced many derbies, in other cities too, but this game has to be prepared like a Cup Final.
“Genoa are a side with a specific identity, they’re very aggressive and have a different style to Samp. We must face the match knowing the difficulties, the characteristics of our opponents and our own qualities that can hurt them.
“The Samp style over the last 50 years, I think, has paid off better, though Genoa have been stronger recently. Over the years Samp have always looked to play good football, to enjoy their games and players were chosen based on that. It doesn’t mean one style is better than another, but they are different.
“Genoa are physically strong, tall and resistant. They overturned scorelines because they have that genetic aggression. We must contrast that to let our own characteristics shine.
“Are Genoa the favourites? Maybe because they’ve lost a bit too often recently, or because they are three points ahead of us. I have no anxiety in any case.
“We need to get a result and secure our status, because in football you often get the unpredictable event. I think the team is ready and has a healthy amount of fear about the drop.
“We’ll try to leapfrog Genoa in the table, but first of all we need to focus on this game and give some satisfaction to our fans. The squad is well aware of how important the derby is for the supporters. They didn’t need reminding.”
Montella was asked whether Antonio Cassano will start, but seemed to suggest he shouldn’t hold his breath.
“It depends on his mental state, what he expects to do and what he is willing to do. At times it’s better to come off the bench.
“I think often people confuse age with experience. We all need to interpret the chances we are given the right way.”
President Massimo Ferrero said yesterday he would release Montella from his contract if he wanted to take the Italy job.
“The President showed with action as well as words his great respect towards me as a professional and affection towards me as a person. I am more honoured by the latter.
“In any case, this isn’t the time to talk about it. I have great respect for Samp and the people who make up the club, so have been extremely fair and open. Privately, the club knows my thoughts.”