Giampaolo sets the tone ahead of derby: “This is not just any old match”

Marco Giampaolo was in a fired-up and focused mood in this afternoon’s pre-match press conference on the Derby della Lanterna tomorrow.

“This game comes at just the right time, I’m happy we’re playing the derby tomorrow,” the Blucerchiati coach declared. “There’s a lot at stake and we’ll have to compete for 90 minutes. This is not just any game; this is the game. It’s not part of the normal Serie A fixture list but is something different.”

Asked what effect a victory over Genoa would have, Giampaolo responded that “it would put a lot of things right and would give us back what we have deserved. However, I don’t want to wind back the tape, let’s focus on the present.

“There are no favourites in the derby, the form guide doesn’t apply here. I’ve never seen this game in the flesh, but I’ve seen it many times on television and I’ve watched back some tapes to learn about it and understand the atmosphere. I watched a lot of games, especially the penultimate one from last season, the 3-2 win, plus a load from the early 2000s.”

On the tactical front, the gaffer is expecting a gritty encounter, full of blood, sweat and tears. “I know how they play and we’ve tried some things out to counter them,” he continued. “It will be a dirty game, both due to their style and the tension these encounters provoke. We have to match them physically without forgetting our qualities. The way our opponents go into games is intended to provoke an aggressive response and the occasion will only inflame things even more. When you play man-to-man, the physical clashes increase so I’m hoping for top-class refereeing. Paolo Tagliavento is a good guarantee in this respect.”

Giampaolo also summed up the preparations during the week from his lads: “Theoretically we’ve covered all bases. We tried a lot of things out but now we actually have to play. When you get matches like these, it’s all about heart, passion and clarity of mind amid the craziness. As for injuries, there’s nothing serious. I’m expecting everyone to be fit.

“Is my job at stake? That is my problem and no one else’s. The good of Sampdoria is more important than anything else. The result of the team is what matters, not the coach’s future.”

The coach wrapped up proceedings in the media room by moving away from footballing matters, as tomorrow’s match is being played in the spirit of solidarity. A large donation from gate receipts, auctioned shirts and flags sold will be made to the areas of central Italy devastated by the recent earthquake.

“The club announced this important initiative the morning after the tragedy in Amatrice,” Giampaolo concluded. “Tomorrow will offer concrete support at a vital time. We’re very pleased with the step our club and fans have taken. The more flags are bought, the larger the donation will be and the better support from the crowd.”