Napoli boss Rafa Benitez believes that the Azzurri can secure a positive result in their away clash with Fiorentina on Sunday but understands that the hosts will be a tough side to crack.
The Partenopei will be looking to continue their seven-game unbeaten streak in the Serie A by defeating the Viola at the Stadio Franchi and the tactician remains confident in the his team’s ability to put on a good showing against Vincenzo Montella’s men, though he admits that more support from the Neapolitan side’s fans would help.
Benitez spoke to Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli on Saturday about the match with Fiorentina and which Napoli players will be available to him, while also taking time to issue a message to the San Paolo outfit’s supporters.
“We have faith, we think that we can handle playing against everyone,” said the 54-year-old. “It will be a difficult game but we have confidence in ourselves.
“Fiorentina have always been strong at home, they have a strong club and play at a high technical level. They play well, they had a great run last season and possess the quality to make it to the top. However, we have confidence and we will try to win.
“Montella is smart, we have respect for him and for his club, there are no problems because I know him and I’m very fond of him.
“Rafael Cabral? I spoke with Mariano Andujar, Rafael needs to play and have trust.
“Jose Callejon? I spoke with the staff of [Spain national team coach] Vicente del Bosque, to talk about his quality. The most important thing is that they call him up, because he deserves it. They’ve seen his work and how important it is for us.
“Michu and Juan Zuniga aren’t available yet, they will be evaluated during the international break. I like to have difficulty in my choices, Marek Hamsik is fine along with David Lopez and Miguel Britos.
“I want to do even better than all of the previous coaches who have made history here and win even more.
“The fans? I know it’s hard for many people to make ends meet here, so I’m calm. The fans have realised that as long as we’re united we can win, so for me they should remain calm as well.
“We’ll play well and this will make things easier going to play at an opponent’s stadium.
“We will give our very best in each game. All of you fans must be proud of this hard working team. We can win more games, we want to win something important, it’s our goal.”
