Champions League qualification looks to be a bridge too far for Udinese, so boss Pasquale Marino is setting his sights on sixth place.
The Friulani have impressed during Marino’s first season at the helm, but a mid-season slump seems to have cost them fourth place.
With a six-point gap to Fiorentina, the Zebrette would need a near miracle in order to book a ticket for Europe’s premier Cup competition, but they could overhaul Samp for sixth and gain a guaranteed UEFA Cup berth.
“We must concentrate on the game against Empoli this Sunday and try to end our season well,” Marino said.
“It is fundamental that we approach the next games in the right way and fight until the end.
“Fourth place isn’t easy to reach now as the gap is big and we shouldn’t delude ourselves.
“But sixth is the objective and that is a reasonable target and an honourable finish.”
Udinese trail sixth-placed Sampdoria by two points, but the Blucerchiati must face Roma this weekend.
“It’s difficult to make predictions as there are many points up for grabs and there could be some surprises,” Marino warned.
“It depends on us, but inevitably it also depends on the results of our direct rivals.”
