Giampaolo: “We must win to keep our dreams alive”

Marco Giampaolo has urged Sampdoria to get back to winning ways against Cagliari and reignite their European ambitions.

The Blucerchiati have slipped off the pace in recent weeks but the boss insists his men have what it takes to secure European football for next season.

“We need to win on Sunday to keep our dreams alive,” Giampaolo said at a media conference on Saturday. “We mustn’t let up an inch. We must keep believing we can do it right till the end. We have the physical, mental and technical ability to be up near the top of the table and we have to be good enough to handle the pressure.”

Having previously lost three on the bounce, Cagliari stopped the rot by beating Parma last weekend but they have to contend with a mounting injury list.

“It will be a tough match, as they all are,” the coach went on. “They’re looking for points and they have a few players missing. I want us to be bold and ambitious. I believe we can be successful by playing good football. That’s how we can take a step up.”

Giampaolo also wished to say a word for Sampdoria fan Giovanna Romanato on the day of her funeral.

“I’d like to offer my condolences following the death of Giovanna Romanato. I’d heard about her even before I joined Sampdoria because I had players who were fond of her and who went to see her. It’s very sad news.”