Vincenzo Montella is confident he can turn Fiorentina’s fortunes around against Inter. “I have fallen many times and always got back on my feet.”
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“I expect a strong Inter side who are deservedly fighting it out with Juventus for first place. Inter have temperament, are strong in attack and it should be a game played at a very high level,” said Montella in his press conference.
“Lautaro Martinez has really impressed me, as he can play for the team as well as individually. He has strength, determination and has settled in very quickly to Italian football.
“Antonio Conte has rapidly drilled his mentality into the Inter squad, you can tell they are his team.”
There are reports this will be Montella’s last chance to impress on the Viola bench or he will be fired.
“It has been a difficult week for everyone. I have fallen many times in my life and always got back on my feet. I had 13 operations during my playing career and always returned. I am fired up, sharp, want to make up for lost time and I am sure the team feels the same way.
“I felt the club is by my side during this time. We are all united and ready to go forward together. When you come off four consecutive defeats, then obviously you’ve done something wrong, and this is more difficult than we expected.
“The people of Florence will understand us and these next two home games will help boost confidence. It’s an uphill struggle right now, but soon enough we’ll be flying along into the sunshine.”
Franck Ribery had ankle surgery this morning, so is out of action for at least 10 weeks, putting even more pressure on Federico Chiesa.
“Federico is one of our players and we expect a lot from him, but we shouldn’t rest too heavily on his shoulders. As for Ribery, he is a great man as well as an excellent player and we’ll miss him, but I wish him all the best.
“German Pezzella feels ready to go with the protective mask (after a fractured cheekbone). Kevin-Prince Boateng needed some rest, had a good week of fitness training, so will be fresh and available.”
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