Out-of-favour Fiorentina goalkeeper Norberto Neto understands that the Viola fans found it hard to see him back in the staring 11 on Thursday night in the 2-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur.
The shot-stopper had been considered to be the Gigliati’s first choice shotstopper until he revealed he would be leaving the club at the end of the season, at which point he was frozen out of the setup.
Speaking to Globoesport, the Brazilian acknowledged that the Viola faithful had found it hard to welcome him back with open arms.
“For the fans it was difficult to accept that I would be playing,” he stated.
“The stories suggesting I was unhappy at the club are not true, that is not why I am not renewing my contract.
“I was very happy at the club, I have spent five great years here but it has reached a point where I have to do what is best for my life and career.”
Neto insisted that should he be called upon before the season’s end he would act as a professional and give his all to help his team win matches.
“I will honour my contract as a professional,” he said. “I will continue to work hard and focus on my football at Fiorentina.”
Neto joined the Serie A side from Atletico Paranaense in 2011 and has since made 80 appearances for the club.
