01 November 1897
Claudio Marchisio is confident the Bianconeri have what it takes to right the wrongs of a slow introduction to their Serie A season by picking up plenty of points from their upcoming league encounters.
Injuries to experienced names such as Marchisio and Sami Khedira have made the process of gelling a new-look side that little bit more challenging, but with the treatment table now clearing and players returning to peak form, the midfielder is adamant that the team will soon start realising its full potential.
The 29-year-old’s condition was the first topic discussed in a wide-ranging interview with Sky Sport Italia, conducted the day after the Bianconeri’s 0-0 Champions League draw with Borussia Monchengladbach.
Here is a selection of Marchisio’s quotes:
Condition
“I’m feeling better and happy to be back after such a long time out. Watching my team-mates play whilst I’m on the sidelines is never a nice feeling, you always want to be out there and play your part. We’ve had a testing start to the campaign, but now we’re all fit we’re ready to climb back up the table as soon as possible.”
Opportunity wasted
“Last night’s game against Borussia Monchengladbach was an opportunity wasted. We were at home and could have taken a step closer to the knockout stages. But we must look at the bigger picture, as this year’s start to the Champions League has been a lot more positive in comparison to previous seasons, when our qualification hopes went down to the last game.”
Climbing the table
“We need to work things out on a game by game basis to regain our consistency. Nobody has shot out in front in the league though, and that’s something that works in our favour. We know that results are required to make up the ground and we must get them as soon as possible.”
Title favourites
“Fiorentina are enjoying a very strong start to the season, but those who are best equipped for a real title tilt are Roma and Napoli.”
Sami Khedira
“He’s a great player and has settled in brilliantly. He’s a real grafter and worked hard to get back from his injury as quickly as possible. He really helps out the team.”
Paul Pogba
“When you’re a good player it’s inevitable that expectations will be high and his responsibilities have increased following the departures of important names. But Paul knows his strengths and needs to focus exclusively on playing for the team.”
