Alvarez: “We’ll take confidence from the win, heads down for Torino”

Ricky Alvarez returned to the scoresheet for the first time since the 2015/16 trip to Fiorentina on Wednesday night, setting his Doria side on their way to a convincing 3-0 Coppa Italia win over Cagliari at Marassi.

“We produced a good showing, stayed focused and gave nothing away,” said the Samp No.11 after the game. “The boss had asked us to put in a professional performance and we did exactly that – we showed that we’re a united team. We’re delighted to qualify and build some consistency, plus my goal gives me a confidence boost.”

Alvarez, who was one of the older heads in a youthful Samp team on Wednesday night, praised some of the fringe players for slotting in and performing to a high standard.

“We had lots of youngsters out there tonight, but we played very well,” insisted Alvarez. “It was an important 90 minutes for some of those that have played a bit less so far this season. There’s lots of competition in my position but that’s an added motivation.

“We have some great players in the squad and we’re all more or less around the same level. If somebody is missing, there’s another player ready to replace him. Starting now we focus on Torino, who are a tough, experienced side. We want to get another result here at Marassi.”

Check out more from Alvarez below!