Napoli boss Edy Reja is confident his side can emerge from their crisis against a resurgent Udinese this afternoon.
The Partenopei’s Champions League ambitions are evaporating fast after three consecutive defeats with Chievo, Roma and Fiorentina.
“Historically it seems that January isn’t a fortunate month for us,” shrugged the Coach. “We deserved at least a draw in Florence, showing pride and character.
“We played on level terms with the Viola, but unfortunately this is a time in which things are not going our way.”
Udinese know all about that, as they picked up three draws in 11 rounds before shocking Juventus 2-1 midweek.
“We are not worried,” assured Reja. “My boys have great self-belief and I am convinced soon you’ll see the real Napoli again.
“The season is made up of peaks and troughs, but at this moment we are above all disappointed at not reaping what we have sowed.
“I am absolutely certain we will soon re-emerge. We are alive and kicking.”
Roma ended Napoli’s unbeaten home record after 10 months, but Udinese have lost their last six away games on the trot.
“Udinese are fired up after the win over Juventus, so it will be a difficult game, but I assure you we go on to that field relaxed and confident, ready to play with great intensity. We’re on our way back.”
Marek Hamsik, Walter Gargano and Matteo Contini return from suspension, while German Denis partners Ezequiel Lavezzi after a poor couple of games with Marcelo Zalayeta upfront.
Napoli are also looking to the future, as they have signed Argentine Datolo, who arrives in Italy today for his medical.
“He is a player of great technique and an excellent left foot. I can’t wait to see him in action,” concluded Coach Reja.
Kick-off at the San Paolo is at 17.15 UK time, as all Serie A and B games begin 15 minutes late in protest at the one-year ban handed to Napoli’s Daniele Mannini and Davide Possanzini of Brescia.
They were late for a doping test in December 2007 and, although they later tested negative for banned substances, were suspended for 12 months.
The Italian authorities had originally been very lenient with a two-week suspension, but the World Anti-Doping Authority intervened.
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