Spalletti expects Empoli threat

Luciano Spalletti is aware that the match against surprise package Empoli will not be an easy one. “They have the right mentality,” he said.

The Tuscans, currently fourth in the table, are eager to confirm their role as European challengers and the Giallorosso knows that winning points at the Stadio Castellani on Saturday afternoon will prove to be a difficult challenge.

“We will have to play better than them if we want to win and it won’t be easy,” said Spalletti, who was an Empoli player before leading the side from Serie C1 to Serie A as their Coach between 1993 and 1997.

“I am impressed with what they have done so far. I think their form will last until the end of the season, they have the right mentality which is needed to be a strong side.”

The tactician then moved on to comment on Francesco Totti and his excellent state of form, as the captain leads the top scorer list having netted 14 times this season and is now the highest active scorer in Serie A with 139 goals scored during his career.

“I have never seen a player like him, he gives continuity to every action and can place the ball where no one thinks he could.

“However, all players can improve and I think Totti has the opportunity to do even better than what we have seen so far,” concluded Spalletti.

Meanwhile, Simone Perrotta’s ankle injury is not as serious as initially expected and the midfielder should be available for Saturday’s match, after resuming regular training with the rest of the squad on Wednesday.

However, the Coach cannot count on David Pizarro, who flew back to Chile for personal reasons, as well as Philippe Mexes and Cristian Chivu, both injured.

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