D’Angelo: “Padova a dangerous team, we must build on the Avellino performance”

On the eve of the midweek match against Padova, Spezia coach Luca D’Angelo commented on his team’s current form: “We had few days to reflect on the Avellino match, which was very positive for us, but we’ve been focused for days on tomorrow’s game, which is crucial for our season.

I think the team in Avellino played to win the match, as they have on other occasions this year, even if they hadn’t been able to secure three points until the ‘Partenio’ game. I don’t believe they played for their coach, for all of us, the most important thing was to deliver a strong performance and take the three points, which we managed to do.

Midweek rotation? We need to see which players have recovered better. Some are a bit more physically challenged due to playing many matches, but in any case, we must field the best possible lineup, choosing players who are in the best physical and mental condition.

Fellipe Jack played well; we need to see how he has recovered in recent days to make the best decision. Wisniewski has recovered, while Onofri and Cistana will be evaluated today.

Nagy is an important player for this category, with incredible experience. He started in the European Championship, nearly won two Serie B titles, finishing third twice. Some less brilliant performances are natural, but his technical and tactical quality cannot be questioned; he also delivered an excellent performance in Avellino.

As I’ve always said, I accept criticism because it’s part of the job. I still feel the support of the fans, even those who criticize me, probably the same ones who applauded me when things went well, and that’s natural when results don’t go our way; it’s part of our profession.

I’m glad Vlahovic and Di Serio have opened their accounts, but I think all our forwards are in good form. Lapadula and Soleri also performed excellently in Avellino. It’s important that all forwards, including Artistico when he returns, feel fully integrated into the team, as they have so far. Personally, I feel very confident about their upcoming performances.

Candela has had some physical issues in recent weeks, so he has played less, but he’s very important for us. Beruatto hasn’t played much recently because Aurelio is in better form at the moment, but when called upon, he has always delivered, even providing an assist in Avellino.

Tactically, we are sometimes labeled as a team that builds little from the back and often plays long balls. I don’t think that’s true; sometimes we take risks in build-up, which is something we always try to exploit. I don’t understand how we’re considered a long-ball team when last season we were among the best teams in possession. It’s a point I disagree with.

Padova is a team that knows what it’s doing. They are newly promoted and performing very well. I can confidently say they are a dangerous team, so we must bring the right approach and full attention for the entire match".