Giampaolo: “Respect for SPAL but I expect a top performance from Samp”

Marco Giampaolo wants Sampdoria to pick up where they left off against Napoli when they host SPAL on Saturday afternoon – insisting a similar performance to the one shown at the San Paolo would normally equate to three points.

“We were excellent against Napoli and I want another excellent performance tomorrow. 99 times out of 100 that would mean we win.

“SPAL may be a newly promoted side but they’ve caused problems for several big clubs already this season. They’re a physical outfit with some very good attacking options. They’re the best-equipped team among those down near the bottom. We respect them a lot but I believe greatly in my own team.”

The coach admitted he still has decisions to make regarding his starting line-up.

“I don’t know if [Duvan] Zapata will recover in time and if he doesn’t I’m not sure yet who will play. [Karol] Linetty is a very important player for us. He’s trained well all week and he’s fit again.”

As 2017 draws to a close, the boss was asked to take stock of the year that was.

“I’ll take stock of my own work when my time here comes to an end, which I hope happens as far down the line as possible. I’ve been provided the ideal conditions to work in and I’m allowed to do my own thing on the pitch. I have an excellent relationship with all my players.

“I am ambitious but I feel a strong sense of belonging to this club and I hope to keep improving here.”