Bellini: Parma players honoured the shirt

Atalanta captain Gianpaolo Bellini has praised the Parma players’ effort following both side’s 0-0 stalemate at the Stadio Ennio Tardini.

Parma are in a dire financial state and were in risk of disqualification from Serie A before the clubs agreed to help them see off the season, and Bellini rubbished claims that such a decision makes the season abnormal.

“We have great respect for Parma’s footballers,” Bellini told reporters. “Irregular championship? No way. They honoured their shirt.”

Despite sitting four points clear of the relegation zone, Bellini reiterated that his side are not safe just yet.

“We have much to do” Bellini said. “We are not safe yet.”