MIHAJLOVIC: "IMPORTANT WIN"
This is what was said by the coach Sinisa Mihajlovic after the Rossoneri booked their place in the quarter-finals of the TIM Cup with a 2-0 victory away at Sampdoria:
"We simply had to win tonight and we achieved what we came here to do. It was a big chance and we took it. The run to the final is certainly within our reach and tonight's win is a confidence boost for our league campaign too. Winning here was far from certain, and we showed great character. We are now aiming to win at Frosinone this weekend to go into the winter break with less pressure on us. Tonight, we should have sealed the win earlier, but I am pleased with the team. We gave away very little and were solid. It’s a big win and I hope it gives us more self-confidence and enthusiasm".
"We’re all aware that Milan can and must do better. But the main thing was the team’s reaction tonight and we showed we don’t give up. We spoke together as a team after the Hellas Verona match. We’re happy with the win, but it’s not all down-hill from here. Carpi (Milan’s opponents in the quarter-finals, editor’s note) won in Florence. We have a great chance to go all the way to the final, but nothing is definite in football. Far from it. But the players have to take this opportunity we have been presented. However, let’s focus now on this weekend’s match away at Frosinone".
"The Marassi is a tough ground to play at and the team approached the match well. We stuck to our game plan. Samp have players that can make it hard, but the lads deserved this win. We were solid, compact and were rarely under pressure".
"I never worry about the rumours and I have confidence in the job I am doing. I never get carried away and I continue to remain calm. I have a strong character and I don’t let it get to me. I am not worried. We have plenty of room for improvement as a team, we have always trained well and the team is behind me. We’re a united group which leaves me feeling calm. The Marassi has been like a second-home to me. It’s always nice to come back. I hoped to come back here with both sides in better shape, but I am certain Montella will do a great job from now until the end of the season. Soriano? I don’t comment on players that aren’t mine. Frosinone? They will battle hard and could make it hard for us, but if we play like we know how, we have all the qualities to win."
(Photo LaPresse)
