Fiorentina director Daniele Pradè backed dropping Mario Gomez against Sevilla and “would like to continue” with Vincenzo Montella.
The Viola lost the first leg of the Europa League semi-final 3-0 and the decider is tonight.
Follow all the action from this game and Dnipro v Napoli on our LIVEBLOG.
There was a surprise in the starting XI, as Montella dropped Gomez in favour of Josip Ilicic as a False 9.
Fiorentina director Daniele Pradè backed dropping Mario Gomez against Sevilla and “would like to continue” with Vincenzo Montella.
The Viola lost the first leg of the Europa League semi-final 3-0 and the decider is tonight.
Follow all the action from this game and Dnipro v Napoli on our LIVEBLOG.
There was a surprise in the starting XI, as Montella dropped Gomez in favour of Josip Ilicic as a False 9.
“Let’s not start questioning the choices of our Coach,” director of sport Pradè told Sport Mediaset.
“Ilicic is in good shape and we are a side who can change shape during a game. We’re starting with the 4-3-3, but can change face as the night wears on.
“Sport is like life, nothing is impossible. We can score three goals, though it is already a success for us to have reached this far.
“We will give our all on the field and we believe in our chances. We must play an intelligent game, not pouring forward in droves straight away.
“Don’t forget Bayern Munich scored against Barcelona early, then conceded two goals in 10 minutes. We mustn’t be like the Bavarians.”
Pradè was asked whether Fiorentina would still have Montella on the bench next season and did not seem entirely confident.
“Our intention is to wait for the end of the season. Montella is the main point of our rebirth. We would like to continue together.
“And Gomez? Let’s focus on tonight’s game and the Europa League. We expect a great performance, even though we only have a 10-15 per cent chance of qualifying.
“We mustn’t leave ourselves exposed. We can get the victory, as we have 90 minutes at our disposal and I’d love to be 1-0 up after half an hour to see what happens next.”