Claudio Ranieri has been “both Coach and psychologist” in his first week at Sampdoria, as he prepares to face his old club Roma.
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 UK time (13.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“I am satisfied with the enthusiasm and concentration shown by the squad in our first week of training,” said the new boss in his Press conference.
Claudio Ranieri has been “both Coach and psychologist” in his first week at Sampdoria, as he prepares to face his old club Roma.
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 UK time (13.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“I am satisfied with the enthusiasm and concentration shown by the squad in our first week of training,” said the new boss in his Press conference.
Eusebio Di Francesco parted company with the Blucerchiati after six defeats in seven rounds, with Ranieri set to make his debut on his 68th birthday against hometown club Roma.
“I do this profession because of the emotions that it gives me. Right now, the most important thing is to get points for Samp. I can’t wait to become loved by these fans.
“I know Roma well and they were built to challenge for a place in Europe, with a lot of possession and vertical passes. We need the fans to push us forward like the wind in our sails and forgive any errors until after the game. We need a positive atmosphere.
“I’ve been both Coach and psychologist this week. I don’t like to see players get downhearted or let their heads drop. Fabio Quagliarella is also starting to relax and I hope tomorrow he can do even more. We know the life of a hitman is tied to goals, so he might not be Capocannoniere this season, but he’ll still score plenty.”
Ranieri was asked which system he will use after Marco Giampaolo’s 4-3-1-2 and the various Di Francesco versions.
“The team knows the diamond midfield off by heart. They also played 4-3-3 and 3-5-2, so they are adaptable.”
There are concerns this game could be rescheduled due to weather warnings in the city of Genoa.
“It would be simpler to play now, as it’s a packed fixture list, but I will adapt to whatever the authorities suggest.”