Sampdoria defender Lorenzo De Silvestri says his side are very proud of what they have accomplished this season and that they will be only too happy to take Genoa’s place in the Europa League.
A 2-2 draw against Parma on the final day meant that the Blucerchiati had to settle for a seventh placed finish – three points behind their city rivals whose place they could claim in Europe’s secondary competition should their appeals against the denial of a UEFA licence fall on deaf ears.
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia for the final time this season, De Silvestri began: “If you look at what has happened this season and where we have come from, then there is great pride in what we have achieved.
“There is regret about the end of the season but we have given everything. We are happy with 56 points because at the start of the season we would not have expected this. I must congratulate the whole squad and the technical staff.”
The former Fiorentina man added: “On the field, Genoa deserved the qualification for Europe but if corporate matters prevent them from taking part, we will be happy to do so. We would have to be happy.
“Some have said we should not participate but it would be an opportunity for this team to grow and also very important from the financial point of view of the club.”
