Stefano Pioli is “honoured to be coaching this group” and praised captain Milan Badelj, as Fiorentina try to get back to normality against Torino.
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
Stefano Pioli is “honoured to be coaching this group” and praised captain Milan Badelj, as Fiorentina try to get back to normality against Torino.
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
The Tuscans are slowly trying to get back to some sense of normality after the sudden death of captain Davide Astori and last week’s touching tribute at the Stadio Franchi as they beat Benevento 1-0.
“Last Sunday was an unusual match, but tomorrow we’ll be playing football,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
“The lads are doing genuinely extraordinary things. They are training so well and we want to play our game from start to finish against a strong Torino side.
“I never had doubts, but I’m more convinced than ever that these players are finding a strength within themselves that I didn’t think they had. I am truly honoured to be coaching this group.
“It’ll be a strong emotional wave every time we step on to the field for a while yet. Davide was really a central figure for us. I’m glad the Torino fans have said they’ll pay tribute to Davide. Every time we get out there for a match, we’ll give our all to honour his memory.”
The captain’s armband has been taken over by Milan Badelj, although his contract is due to expire in June.
“It’s no coincidence that he and Davide were so close. He reacted to this situation with character and pride, wearing his friend’s armband. Davide would be happy to know Badelj is carrying it on his arm.
“I haven’t spoken to him about the future, as it’s not right to do that now, but knowing his bond with the fans and the club, I think he’s giving the idea of remaining in Florence some serious thought.”