Colley: “Three points and a clean sheet – the perfect gift”

There were plenty of good tidings for Sampdoria and Omar Colley on Boxing Day as the Blucerchiati defeated Chievo 2-0 at the Marassi.

“It’s a really important win because it takes us up the table,” the Gambian giant explained.

“Chievo are a very strong team with very experienced players so we knew it was going to be tough but we stayed patient.

“It’s a Boxing Day win and I think our fans will be really happy with the gift. Plus, it was my first home game in Serie A and we kept a clean sheet so I’m very happy.”

The 26-year-old went on to lavish praise on “genius” coach Marco Giampaolo as well as his fellow centre-backs.

“Giampaolo is not only a coach; he’s like a mentor or a lecturer, especially for us defenders. He’s the best coach I’ve ever worked with. I’ve seen a lot of improvement in my game.

“[Lorenzo] Tonelli has a lot of experience and I’m learning a lot from him. [Joachim] Andersen is also a very talented player. I’m still learning but it doesn’t mean I’m not ready to play.”

Sampdoria face one final test before the year is out and it doesn’t get much bigger than away to Juventus, but Colley says they’re ready for the challenge.

“Juventus are a big team but we’re Sampdoria and we’re on a very good run at the moment. We’ll go there as underdogs but we’re ready to face them.”