Paulo Sousa hopes that victory over Roma “can give Fiorentina the right push” to reach their peak, but identified the Federico Bernardeschi problem.
It kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“Victories bring enthusiasm and confidence. There’s still a long way to go and winning certain games can give us the right push to reach the next level,” said the Viola Coach in his Press conference.
Paulo Sousa hopes that victory over Roma “can give Fiorentina the right push” to reach their peak, but identified the Federico Bernardeschi problem.
It kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“Victories bring enthusiasm and confidence. There’s still a long way to go and winning certain games can give us the right push to reach the next level,” said the Viola Coach in his Press conference.
“If we manage to beat Roma convincingly, as we did at times last season, then that’ll be even better for our collective self-esteem.
“In order to score goals, we need to create chances and in Salonika we did create several good scoring opportunities. At times we got the last ball wrong. Our style of play means we can create chances both centrally and on the flanks, so we just need to keep working and the goals will come.”
Sousa criticised Bernardeschi after the 0-0 Europa League draw at PAOK on Thursday, saying the Italy international seemed “confused” and needed to clear his head.
“I never spoke about the private life of any of my players. In physical terms he needs to grow. Bernardeschi has enormous talent, but to consolidate himself as a top player he needs to work.
“I have been in football for 30 years and I realise there is going to be a debate in the media, but it’s our job to find balance. What I ask Federico is to be focused on the team. Everyone must be united and put the team above all else.”
Davide Astori and Carlos Salcedo have recovered from fitness problems, while Khouma Babacar impressed against PAOK.
Borja Valero was heavily linked with Roma over the summer, so will all eyes be on him tomorrow evening?
“It could’ve happened with him or any other member of my squad, but I stayed focused. He provides many options when constructing moves and can also make the difference when pushing forward on the final third. This team needs his quality,” noted Sousa.
“Roma have the quality to win the Scudetto. It’s true Juve made some big investments, but the Giallorossi should quite rightly aim high.
“Francesco Totti is the kind of player every Coach would love to have in his squad. Every team should have a symbol who recognises the value of the club and can communicate it to the rest of the group. As long as he feels able to help his teammates and enjoy his football, it’s only right that he continues.”
Fiorentina squad for Roma: Astori, Badelj, Bernardeschi, Chiesa, Cristoforo, De Maio, Diks, Dragowski, Ilicic, Kalinic, Babacar, Lezzerini, Milic, Olivera, Rodriguez, Salcedo, Sanchez, Tatarusanu, Tello, Tomovic, Valero, Zarate