Bortolo Mutti has dismissed fears and criticism regarding Josip Ilicic’s recent form for Palermo.
Bortolo Mutti has dismissed fears and criticism regarding Josip Ilicic’s recent form for Palermo.
The Slovenian playmaker’s form has dipped in recent weeks, but ahead of welcoming Roma to the Renzo Barbera this weekend, his Coach Mutti does not believe there is long-standing problem surrounding the player.
“The reported issue with Ilicic does not exist,” Mutti told the assembled Press on Friday.
“The criticism does not make sense, players have positive and negative moments during a season, the latter when you are not the player that everyone wants, but if you are properly focused then you can overcome it.
“It is clear that one cannot always be on top form and it sometimes means that you do not manage to do things even when you have great skill.
“It is not something determined or fixed by clear parameters.”
Mutti also had some kind words for Luis Enrique, ahead of encountering him in Week 27.
“I respect Luis Enrique a lot. He is an open person and is a man of football. He is well integrated into Italy, with personality and courage. I wish him well.”