Udinese tactician Pasquale Marino knows today’s head-to-head at Sampdoria will be “decisive” for European places.
Only one point separates these two teams going into Marassi, so it is essentially a play-off for the Champions League and UEFA Cup races.
“Without doubt it is an incredibly important game. It could well be decisive for whoever fails to win this weekend.”
Fiorentina’s 1-0 victory over Palermo last night increased their lead to seven points, so a result is needed by both these sides to have any hope of keeping up with fourth place.
“The Viola’s result could affect the approach of the two teams on the field, even if motivation was never going to be an issue,” continued Marino.
“We will try to win, but without running unnecessary risks. Leaving extra space to Samp could be very dangerous and we must attack intelligently.
“In the first meeting Antonio Cassano caused us some problems, but Fabio Quagliarella’s brace was crucial in our victory.”
Cristian Zapata returns from a long injury lay-off, while Dias Felipe, Antonio Chimenti, Gyan Asamoah and Christian Obodo are still sidelined.
