Sousa: ‘Very proud of Fiorentina’

Paulo Sousa was “very proud of my Fiorentina team, because against all odds and obstacles we are able to play football” after a 4-2 defeat to Inter.

It was impossible to tell the Viola were down to 10 men for the entire second half, as they came back from 3-0 to 3-2, but eventually lost 4-2.

“We expected everything Inter presented. Our every error went against us, but it was a great performance and I am very proud of the lads,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

Paulo Sousa was “very proud of my Fiorentina team, because against all odds and obstacles we are able to play football” after a 4-2 defeat to Inter.

It was impossible to tell the Viola were down to 10 men for the entire second half, as they came back from 3-0 to 3-2, but eventually lost 4-2.

“We expected everything Inter presented. Our every error went against us, but it was a great performance and I am very proud of the lads,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“This means we are a great team, because against all odds and obstacles we are able to play football and create chances when trying to win games. That makes me proud."

There were some very contentious decisions, above all the harsh Gonzalo Rodriguez red card on the stroke of half-time.

“I do not talk about referees once the match is over. I was referring to all the complexities of a game, including the talent of the Inter squad.”

In the final stages, Sousa surprisingly introduced teenagers Federico Chiesa and Joshua Perez.

“I think of this game and the future of the lads. I introduced them because they have pace and can step up a gear, take men on, so that’s why we thought they would help.

“We played well, but in the first few minutes the transitions of the Inter team caused us huge problems and that’s because they are a fine team.

“We need to be more aggressive and show the right intensity in defence, but we work every day to improve on making the right decisions. Unfortunately, at the moment we are penalised for every error.

“The lads follow me and they work hard every day in training to improve.”

Sousa was asked if he wanted to send a signal to the club to invest more on the transfer market?

“Please lads, I love football, so let’s stick to football.”