Davide Ballardini is about to achieve the seemingly impossible by keeping Cagliari in Serie A, so he believes he can also defeat Roma today.
The Sardinians looked done for only a few weeks ago, but are off the foot of the table and with the three-point penalty for suing a former player now revoked on appeal, could escape the drop zone this weekend.
“We never thought the authorities would not give back the points. We are relaxed and ready to battle it out with a great opponent,” said the Coach who has turned their fortunes around.
“We are in good shape and have the right spirit for this test. We’ll play with the utmost intensity and effort, as I’m sure Roma will too.”
If Cagliari are desperate for points, then Luciano Spalletti’s side are in an identical position, just four points adrift of Serie A leaders Inter.
“In these three months my lads have overcome so many difficulties, but they know there are still plenty to come,” continued Ballardini.
“The Stadio Sant’Elia will be practically sold out and it is pleasing to see the stands packed with fans. We have won back our supporters with hard work and they understood we’ll fight to the bitter end.
“We need the enthusiasm of our fans and the atmosphere will give us a boost. It will be the push we require to balance out the quality of Roma.”
Ballardini took over from Nedo Sonetti in January 2008, having already been fired by the club after just nine games in the 2004-05 campaign.
Under his tutelage Under-21 international striker Robert Acquafresca has hit a rich vein of form with three goals in as many games, but midfield dynamo Daniele Conti is suspended.
“The usual Cagliari will step on to the field, attacking and defending as a unit, all together. That team spirit is the only weapon at our disposal against a side like Roma.
“The absence of Conti is a heavy blow, but we have those to replace him and Andrea Cossu will probably play in the centre.”
Kick-off at the Stadio Sant’Elia is at 17.00 UK time.
