Marco Silvestri is far from down in the dumps after the defeat at the hands of Torino on Sunday. He has got the fans used to remarkable calmness between the sticks, with his confidence and assuredness overflowing into those watching him play as well.
“I don’t think the games against Monza and Torino are a big problem,” he explained on Udinese Tonight. “We have to use this week to focus on the league season that we need to have. There’s still a very long way to go and we’re staying calm. We’ve earnt the points we have so far from our performances out on the pitch and nobody can cancel out the past.
“The two matches we’ve lost remind us that Serie A is a competitive league and you always have to be ready. We wanted to progress in the Coppa Italia, but lost due to a four-minute blackout. Yesterday’s game was a shame as well because it was a great team performance and the atmosphere at the stadium was incredible.
“It’s not nice to lose, but it could help us if we can use it constructively to improve and win other games. I was surprised by Torino’s approach. I know [Ivan] Juric very well and I can imagine the way he prepared for the game, which his side went on to win.
“I haven’t been called into action that much recently and that’s a good thing. You can always do more from goals that you let in. In my career, I could’ve done more for maybe 50 or 60% of the goals conceded.”
The goalkeeper also spoke about the importance of Udinese within his family nowadays: “My father has become an Udinese fan. He likes his seat, the stadium and the club. He often comes with my mum to watch me. We’ve also got a house in Udine.
“You never know in this job. We’re happy here now, then we’ll see later on. This is a top-level club and it should be something that changes your career.
“When we set up, we play as a back four with me at the back. Coach Andrea Sottil wants the defender to leave me space to play in, but it’s not a particular request. Everything is decided on the pitch based on the situation.
“It’s never nice to lose, but this week could now be key for how to finish the first part of the season. It could help us approach the next four games in a better way than if we’d won or drawn. We were in incredible form, so this defeat has brought us back down to earth and shown us that we have to keep working hard. To do what we’ve done is exceptional.
“Jaka Bijol is doing really well and gives the team reassurance. I think we’re doing brilliantly defensively. If Jaka can’t play, Bram Nuytinck comes in. The other defenders are doing well too. I’m so pleased with the cover in front of me.”
The final word was on the fans, 2,000 of whom are expected to travel to Cremonese on Sunday. “It’s a wonderful thing. We love it so much. 2,000 is a huge number. We have to make sure they go back home happy after the trip to Cremona. It’s always fantastic to see Dacia Arena packed out as well as our travelling fans. We’re grateful to the supporters and really feel their backing.”