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Giuseppe Papadopulo warns that Udinese's desperation for points could bring out their inherent qualities.
Giuseppe Papadopulo warns that Udinese's desperation for points could bring out their inherent qualities.
"The biggest danger is represented by a side that is angry and ‘desperate' for results in a season they expected to spend in the upper side of the table rather than fighting against the drop," noted the tactician.
Udinese have started campaigning in the Champions League, but even after Serse Cosmi's dismissal, they have continued to slide down the standings and are without a win in 11 Serie A games.
"We know very well that they are worth more than that, and their qualities could emerge at any time. Perhaps, they are also feeling the brunt as we are by competing in three tournaments."
Both teams are in the Coppa Italia semi-finals and took part in the UEFA Cup mid last week, Palermo beating Schalke 04 with a 1-0 score line and Udinese drawing 0-0 with Levski Sofia.
The strains of those matches have taken their toll on the Rosanero, who have not even called captain Eugenio Corini and Italian international Fabio Grosso for the Udinese encounter.
There is a further risk represented by the poor weather that has struck Sicily over the last few days.
"I only hope the pitch would be in good condition, as the muddy field does not suit the style of play of a team like ours."