A week on from the game against Juventus, Andrea Sottil took stock of the work done by the squad as they prepare to host Bologna at Dacia Arena on Sunday afternoon.
“We've had a full week to recover our fitness and work on tactics and technique,” the coach offered. “The lads have trained well. They've applied themselves really well and been in a good frame of mind – we need that to be able to think clearly and improve our game. It's been a good week.
“[Destiny] Udogie and [Isaac] Success weren't at their best after the last game but they're both better now. They worked on their own the first two days and with the rest of the group since then. I expect to see improvement in our fitness levels and above all I want us to be more constant in our performances.
Following six consecutive victories earlier in the season, defeat in Turin saw Udinese's winless run stretch to nine Serie A games – but Sottil insists there is no panic within the club.
“We're aware of the fact we haven't won for a while – that's the inescapable truth – but we must stay calm and clear-headed because we're still eighth in the table and we have 25 points, compared to 17 at this stage last season.
“We haven't stopped playing well and we've always performed. We should have a few more points but there are no easy games in Serie A. I don't think the term 'win at all costs' is appropriate. We all know we must head out there tomorrow and play with real desire and battling spirit – that's part of our game. We need a proper Udinese performance while keeping rational and maintain our shape.”
A group of Udinese fans gathered at the training ground on Saturday morning to encourage the team before the match against Bologna – something the coach was keen to acknowledge.
“It shows how much they care and it was greatly appreciated both by myself and by the lads, who went over to thank them at the end of the session. Friulians are well-mannered, disciplined people and they understand when it's the right time to show their support and their respect. I'm sure the lads will respond with a big performance. I hope to see the stadium rocking again tomorrow.”
Bologna for their part have a long injury list to contend with, but the boss feels it is only of minor significance.
“That's not our concern. Every club has a squad of great professionals, in both the playing and the coaching staff. Whoever comes in to replace the missing players will be up to the task. It mustn't an excuse. We have to stay focused because it's going to be a very tricky match. They're a well-drilled side with fast, dangerous wingers. We have to make sure we defend tidily but we have what we need to hurt them.”
Sottil finished with an update on Gerard Deulofeu and Lazar Samardzic.
“Deulofeu has been working with the squad for a week now. We'll have a look at him today and decide how to take it from there.
"Samardzic knows how much I rate him and his team-mates do too. I expect a lot from him because he brings quality to the midfield and can score goals as well. He just needs to be consistent in training and in his matchday performances.”