Alberto Gilardino
With safety virtually in their pocket, Genoa faces Cagliari at Marassi tomorrow (8.45 pm) with the aim of winning a home victory that has been missing for some time. The Sardinians are experiencing a very happy moment and are coming off two draws against Inter and Juve and the success against Atalanta.
Alberto Gilardino, the Genoa coach, warns his team: “We must play a concrete and highly competitive match, trying to put a stamp on our championship.”
From the coach a warning to Gidmundsson and Retegui, the most awaited players: “They are important elements for the team, but they must demonstrate it every match by offering responses of sacrifice and help to their teammates, as well as being decisive in many situations. They play ahead of everyone and are the first defenders, but when they have the ball they have to determine.”
As for the lineup, De Winter has been confirmed as the center back, with Vogliacco on the right in place of Bani who, by Gila’s admission, risks having concluded the championship early. Even with words of esteem, the coach ruled out the initial use of both midfielder Bohinen and defender Cittadini, while the restored Vitinha should find a place during the match in progress.
The only uncertainty concerns the use of Gudmundsson: in midfield with Ekuban alongside Retegui or forward with Strootman and Badelj together in the midfield.
Cagliari, led by “grandfather” Ranieri (longly praised by Gilardino in the presentation conference), has to do without the highly rated attacking midfielder Lumumbo, disqualified, and his natural replacement Viola, injured. Among the guests, two former Genoans: Shomurodov, a regular starter as first striker, and Lapadula, who should start from the bench.
Pierluigi Gambino
