Tonelli ready to aid Samp cause: “Coming back was my priority”

After a positive experience in Genoa last season, Lorenzo Tonelli is back wearing the Blucerchiati jersey and is raring to go.

“It’s like I never went away,” the defender told the Samp media team.

He added: “Coming back to Sampdoria is what I wanted – it was my priority. It feels like an achievement.

“As soon as the January transfer window opened, I sent a message to sporting director Carlo Osti, saying I was ready to help the team’s cause.

“Thanks to club president Massimo Ferrero, I’m back here again. I’m very happy, being at a club I rate highly.

“The only negative thing is where we are in the league but we’ll strive to improve that. I get a good feeling from Claudio Ranieri.

“He’s a good person, with class, who transmits calm. He asked me to play against Sassuolo and, although I was unwell, I felt good out on the field.

“On Monday we take on Napoli. It’s like a second home for me, but I want to show them what they’ve let go.”