Vincenzo Montella reveals Fiorentina” data-scaytid=”3″>Fiorentina will “keep Roma’s wolves at bay with fire,” as he reunites with Adem Ljajic and Francesco Totti.
Vincenzo Montella reveals Fiorentina will “keep Roma’s wolves at bay with fire,” as he reunites with Adem Ljajic and Francesco Totti.
The former Giallorossi Coach returns to the Olimpico as an opponent on Sunday at 11.30 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“Roma have experienced players who know how to move, when to change tempo and make the most of their physicality,” said Montella in his Press conference.
“It will certainly be difficult against a quality opponent, but they too know we have quality and because of that they’ll give 100 per cent.”
Rudi Garcia said today Roma will have “11 wolves on the pitch,” so Montella channelled his wildlife knowledge.
“You keep wolves at bay with fire, so we will bring 11 lighters… Garcia is a likeable man and as a Coach he’s patient, prepared and pragmatic. He knows how to change a game halfway through and often expects to be in that situation, which is down to his experience.
“This lead-up is very similar to the atmosphere we had against Juventus in Turin last year, but we did not live up to the expectations. I hope to see more ferocity in this game.”
The Viola are likely to face Ljajic, the player who refused to sign a new contract and pushed for a summer move to Roma.
“I don’t know if Ljajic will play tomorrow, but I hope he doesn’t,” smiled Montella.
“When I told him it would’ve been better to finish his growth process in Florence, I meant it. If you want to know how he sees his campaign at Roma so far, you’d have to ask him.
“Perhaps this game will be decided in midfield and on set plays. David Pizarro hasn’t been training over the last few days, so it’s probable he won’t start. We must be physically and psychologically ready, because it is going to be a tough game.”
Totti is back in the Roma squad for the first time since October 18 and Montella is looking forward to seeing his old teammate.
“I honestly expect him to play tomorrow and he might even start. As teammates we were competitive, but the year of the Scudetto we also spent time together away from the team.”