Ranieri wants consistency: “More of the same against Bologna”

Having begun his reign at Sampdoria with a battling draw against Roma, Claudio Ranieri hopes to see his charges build on that positive display when they visit Bologna on Sunday for the lunchtime kick-off.

“We played well against Roma and the point was useful to help us realise that we’re still in this game,” the coach told reporters during a press conference on Friday.

“Now we must go to Bologna and play with the same determination. They’re a strong, well-drilled side with some great individuals.

“We know we’re coming out of a bad spell and we must use that to our advantage. Bologna are playing well but not getting the results. We need to be very wary. We must close them down, be determined and keep things simple.”

The Stadio Dall’Ara has traditionally a tough ground for Samp to go to but the coach is confident the enthusiasm seen in training in his first two weeks in charge will translate into good performances on matchday.

“The lads have looked very keen once again this week. They’ve been working very hard and that bodes well.”

Asked about the ‘punishment’ for the losing team in training matches, Ranieri explained: “If you make training fun, it can help you perform better in matches. It’s important to enjoy your work.”

The coach also had a few words for Sinisa Mihajlovic, who is fighting his personal battle against illness while still managing to be close to the team.

“Mihajlovic is fighting and he’s an example to us all. All we can do is show him our support.”

With lots of Blucerchiati fans expected to make the trip to the Dall’Ara on Sunday, Ranieri called on his players to repay them for their support.

“I’ve got to know the fans and I know they’ll give us everything this time too. I want to see the team with the same desire on the road as at home. Playing away we’ll have fewer fans but we must give even more for those who are there.”