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Chiellini predicts “firm but fair” derby

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Chiellini predicts “firm but fair” derby
Chiellini predicts “firm but fair” derby
Chiellini predicts “firm but fair” derby

Giorgio Chiellini says Sunday’s derby clash with Torino will not be lacking in passion or endeavour but believes the mutual respect between both sets of players will prevent tempers from boiling over.

Previewing the meeting during an interview with Sky, the defender said: “I think it will be a combative game, as most derbies and really important encounters are. Having said that, there’s plenty of respect and also a good relationship between both sets of players. We’re two groups of great lads and decent people.

“We’re enemies on the pitch twice a year, but there’s mutual respect all round and not, perhaps, the hatred that can sometimes manifest itself in inter-city derbies. We obviously hope to win the match, but also that remains a good game of football for everyone to enjoy.”

Sunday will see Chiellini go up against Fabio Quagliarella for the first time since the striker brought an end to his four-year association with the Bianconeri by making the short move across the city in the summer.

The defender is no stranger to the capabilities of his former team-mate in the final third, and says he is hoping Quagliarella experiences a quiet evening when he returns to his former stomping ground.

He concluded: “We hope it’s not his day, because when it is, and we’ve seen it several times over the years, he can pose a real threat.”

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