Claudio Ranieri claims “balance” is more important to Sampdoria than forging an identity right now after they beat SPAL 1-0 on Monday [12].
Gianluca Caprari came off the bench to head in a stoppage-time winner for Samp, and Ranieri felt his players were benefitting from a new-found “belief” in themselves.
“It was a tough game, but we knew it would be,” the former Roma boss told Sky Sport Italia.
“We had more attempts on goal: maybe a draw would’ve been fair, but if we scored so late then it means we didn’t stop believing.
“We need to believe in these lads. I hope to get them out [of danger] soon. Right now, I need all my players.
“[Forging an identity] all depends on how many points we pick up, although right now the most important thing is balance.”
Fabio Quagliarella was dropped from the starting XI at SPAL, despite being a virtual ever-present for the Blucerchiati this season, and the coach explained why.
“He picked up a thigh problem during the week and, because there were so many matches close together, I preferred to rest him.
“Anyway, I liked how Bonazzoli, Gabbiadini and Caprari players. Caprari’s a unique player, I rate him highly.”