Di Francesco eager for Marassi bow: “It will be hugely exciting”

With little over 24 hours to go before Sampdoria’s 2019/20 Serie A campaign commences against Lazio, Eusebio Di Francesco underlined his eagerness to get started.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, he said: “It will be hugely exciting to have my first game at the Marassi. I’m looking forward to seeing a full house.

“The south stand is important to us. I’ve read that 16,000 already have season tickets – so I’m expecting to see the ground packed.

“I’m sure we’ll put in a very good display – we need to perform to get our fans behind us.

“We’ve made good progress. The game in the Coppa Italia was tough – if we’d been at home it would have been different. I therefore view that as a positive result.

“The boys have been committed and I’m very pleased with how they’re doing. It would be good if we can improve the squad, of course. However for now we’re focused on the game.”

As for the starting line-up, Samp’s coach commented: “It’s almost clear in my mind. I don’t want to say it’s decided – I like to keep everyone on their toes. Many players have got 90 minutes in their legs and that’s very important.

“I want to see a direct approach from the team – that needs to be our trademark. I’m expecting to see a lot of good things from my players tomorrow.”