Extraordinary display needed to conquer Juve, says Giampaolo

After last week’s draw with cross-town rivals Genoa last week, Sampdoria are faced with an unenviable task away at league leaders Juventus.

“The derby is behind us now, it left its marks but the league season continues and we’ve got an extremely tough game ahead of us,” Marco Giampaolo said at the pre-match news conference.

“I’d dare to say it’s impossible, on paper,” he added.

“We need to draw on all our energy to stay in the game. We only have a chance if we avoid giving Juventus the ball, and if we avoid being penned in.”

But how do Doria go about facing a wounded beast, after Massimiliano Allegri’s side were eliminated from the Champions League in the cruellest of fashions?

“I told the guys that there’s always a chance to produce something truly special. I said we’d use the best line-up for that kind of game,” the boss said.

“We need to produce something out of the ordinary.”

“[Bartosz] Bereszynski and [Nicola] Murru are out. [Jacopo] Sala will play on the right, while there are some doubts as to who will play on the left.

When asked about Ivan Strinic and his involvement, Giampaolo explained: “The fact his contract is close to expiring does not affect my choices.

“He had some physical problems and he didn’t return at 100% from a mental standpoint – but he’s in good shape and an important player.

“[Dennis] Praet and [Lucas] Torreira are fine. [Edgar] Barreto has recovered and will feature.”

Club president Massimo Ferrero has said that Giampaolo will be the Sampdoria manager next season.
When asked about his future during the news conference, the manager said: “I’m happy here. I’ve given a good environment in which to work.

“Now is not the time to start thinking about my future. My mind, like those of the players, is focused on the games we have left until the end of the season, beginning with that in Turin.

“This is where we are and we need to keep going, trying to get some music out of the orchestra.”