Udinese v Bologna, Cioffi: “Just rewards will come” | OneFootball

The coach spoke ahead of Udinese's final match of 2023

Bologna are heading to Bluenergy Stadium tomorrow to take on Udinese and coach Gabriele Cioffi gave a press conference on the eve of the fixture. Here’s what the boss had to say:

“We’re taking on a team who are in great form and full of energy. We’re starting to get into the groove and just rewards will come soon. We don’t like our present league position.

“I’m delighted to have Marco Silvestri here. He’s a top goalkeeper who’s been a backbone for the team. His two stand-ins are also excellent. That’s why I’ve decided to give Maduka Okoye a chance tomorrow. It’s a technical decision – I’m not throwing anyone under the bus. The position of goalkeeper is the same as any other – I pick the right man for the job every week.

“Jordan Zemura is still out, and Simone Pafundi took a knock so will also miss tomorrow’s game.

“I’ve heard rumours that me and Lazar Samardzic don’t have a good relationship. That’s not the case. I simply demand the best from every player. Lazar is a top footballer who’s improved a lot, including in his defensive duties. If a big team came in for him I wouldn’t be able to stand in his way. He raises everyone’s game, both in training and in matches.

“I’m also happy with how Thomas Kristensen has been doing. His performances defy his age. When I ask what defenders should be like he says ‘ruthless’. He’s tall, fast and strong – a real handful. His mistake against Atalanta is part and parcel of learning. He’s clearly improving and I really like him as a player."

“We can stand up to any team in the league. We’ve been working on possession this week, a fundamental aspect of playing in Serie A. I think the fruits of our labour will be seen tomorrow. We have a lot of room for improvement, both individually and collectively.

“Bologna attack in numbers but I’ve got a lot of faith in my players. I know that we can put in a top performance. We’re not looking at the league table – we’re taking things game by game. Looking at the Serie A standings and hoping that someone from heaven will help you is a loser’s game: results and victories will come with performances."