Vincenzo Montella hopes beating Sampdoria can be “a six-pointer” in the European race and wants Mo Salah to stay at Fiorentina.

The Viola emerged 2-0 winners at the Stadio Franchi, in one fell swoop going from sixth position to fourth ahead of Samp and Napoli.

“It was a game we really wanted to win, because we knew it had this possibility to overcome two teams. It’s also an important result when it comes to the head-to-head record,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

Vincenzo Montella hopes beating Sampdoria can be “a six-pointer” in the European race and wants Mo Salah to stay at Fiorentina.

The Viola emerged 2-0 winners at the Stadio Franchi, in one fell swoop going from sixth position to fourth ahead of Samp and Napoli.

“It was a game we really wanted to win, because we knew it had this possibility to overcome two teams. It’s also an important result when it comes to the head-to-head record,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

In Serie A if two sides finish level on points, their position is decided by a head-to-head record rather than goal difference.

“We don’t have much time to celebrate recent victories, as we’ve already got to prepare for the Coppa Italia semi-final with Juventus.

“Is it hard fighting on three fronts? The team is finding a certain consistency and we manage to rely on our characteristics in every match. The January arrivals are helping and did so again today.”

Both goalscorers were mid-season signings, as Salah came from Chelsea in the Juan Cuadrado deal and Alessandro Diamanti arrived from Guangzhou Evergrande.

“Salah deserves all the credit for this great impact on Serie A. I don’t know the details of how we can buy him permanently, but I do know there’s another year on loan and then we’ll see.

“The club has to ultimately evaluate the financial issues, but the important thing is that he’s going to be here with us next year.

“I knew his quality, but admittedly I did not expect Salah to adapt so quickly to Serie A. He has scored important and decisive goals against big clubs.”

Fiorentina are now fourth and six points behind Lazio in third. Can they realistically push for a Champions League spot?

“It’ll be tough, as Lazio are sprinting at the moment and only have the Coppa Italia to play in, whereas we have both Cup competitions,” noted Montella.

“We have to watch our own improvements and see where we end up, but it will certainly be difficult.”

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