Palermo upset the odds against Juventus and Stefano Colantuono trusts they can do the same in Florence tonight. “We never give in.”
It could be argued the Rosanero have precious little to play for now that back-to-back victories over Juve and Catania have given them mid-table security, but their Coach is not satisfied.
“We have achieved the objective of improving our position in the table. We had already done well against Napoli, even if we lost, then continued that growth against Juventus and Catania,” said Colantuono.
“Now it is very important to continue along that path and especially confirm our improvements in terms of performance. The result is only a consequence of how we play.
“How would I describe my squad? Determined, a team that never gives in.”
Palermo had hoped to be challenging Fiorentina for fourth place at this stage of the season, but the sacking of Colantuono – later brought back after Francesco Guidolin’s dismissal – made for a complicated campaign.
“Fiorentina are an excellent side with a competitive squad. In these years they have set the standard for the clubs just below the giants and are continuing their solid planning for the future.
“Every year they had two or three elements to the strong skeleton of the team and of course always under the same Coach, which undoubtedly helps.”
The one to watch at the Stadio Franchi this evening will be Fabrizio Miccoli, who scored the late winner in the Sicilian derby last week and has a bone to pick with Fiorentina after they did not renew his contract in 2005.
“He is an important player for us and we certainly missed him during his injury. He lifts the whole quality of the squad.”
