Andrea Sottil has challenged his players to show how hungry they are when they host Torino at Dacia Arena.
The Serie A fixture is an opportunity for Udinese to bounce back from their Coppa Italia exit at the hands of Monza in midweek but the boss was keen to put that result into perspective.
“They're two different competitions and you have to keep them apart. We've already put our cup defeat behind us, just as we quickly move on when we win or draw. It's a shame we're out of the competition but there's no point crying over spilt milk. We have to focus on what we need to do tomorrow, which is beating Torino. They'll be very motivated, but so are we. We've worked really hard trying to improve our game. I'm very happy with how the lads been training.
“I know Torino and I know their coach. They have a clear identity and style of play – they're a Juric team. I have respect for our opponents but we're playing at home, in our stadium with our fans, and we have to focus on ourselves, as we've always done. We must push hard for 100 minutes.We have to want to win every ball more and put in the hard yards. It's a big test for us.”
Sottil came through the ranks and made his professional debut at Torino but he made it clear where his allegiances have always lain.
“I grew up at Torino and I have great memories of my time there. They gave me my first chance in the professional game but it's a different club now. In all these years I've never felt close to them as I took a different path. I'm very proud to be the coach of Udinese, the only club I wanted to coach if I ever got the chance to work in Serie A. I'm delighted to be here and very focused on job I have to do.”
Asked about Torino's difficulties in front of goal this term, Sottil replied: “Every year is different. Players change and so does the team. Torino have some very good forwards and Juric can mix up the way they play.
“I expect it to be a very physical game and it will come down to who wants it more in the duels. We have what we need to hurt our opponents.”
Walace is one player who's expected to start, having sat out against Monza, and the coach had praise for the Brazilian.
“He's a player who offers something different to our other midfielders. He's very strong and has tactical nous. He brings intensity and can play the ball. He's hard to replace.
“We do have some key players – and that's a good thing – but everyone has to feel involved because everyone has and will help us win games.”
Rodrigo Becao on the other hand is suspended but wouldn't have played anyway.
“He's trying to shake off a muscle problem. We hope to get him fit again as soon as possible.”
The coach ended by commending the attitude shown by his players after Wednesday's defeat.
“When you have a close-knit group and you see players not in the starting line-up cheering on their team-mates, that's all you can ask for. We must continue to nurture this mentality.
“There are lots of leaders within the squad who convey the sense of belonging we want. If we focus on the present with that attitude, I'm sure the lads can produce another big performance tomorrow.”