Giampaolo: “I’m expecting a bold performance”

Sampdoria are targeting a first win of the season after back-to-back defeats to Hellas Verona and AC Milan in recent weeks. Marco Giampaolo, who is suspended for the trip to Spezia and will not be in the dugout, was quick to big up his side in the pre-match press conference.

“The players are working hard. I’ll say this once again: we have a good team here. We’re suffering for a match in which we got it wrong and then didn’t pick up enough points considering our performances in other games. Now it’s time to get points on the board because that’s what’ll help us work even harder and play better.”

It would make little sense to speak about last-chance saloon in mid-September, but the coach was keen to stress the importance of the game, equating it to a final.

“It’s a really important match. We’re up against a team with a precise identity. We’ll need to be switched on mentally, channel our anger, determination, personality and courage on the pitch. All these areas can make a difference. I want the team to play with ambition for themselves and for the badge on the chest.”