Cagliari can cope without Conti - Ballardini
Posted Saturday, December 17, 2011 by PA
Cagliari coach Davide Ballardini is confident his side can overcome the absence of captain Daniele Conti and beat Chievo.
The Sardinian outfit travel to Verona without their top scorer, who has been ruled out until the new year with a knee injury.
But Ballardini believes his side have enough quality to beat Chievo without one of their most influential players.
Conti has struck three goals in 13 appearances so far to help Cagliari remain in the top half of the standings.
"We could have done without Conti's injury," Ballardini said.
"He is a very important player for us but we have other alternatives.
"I'm sure whoever takes his place will do well."
With Andrea Cossu serving a one-match ban this weekend, Pablo Cepellini is expected to replace Conti in Cagliari's midfield.
The visitors go into the encounter on the back of a goalless draw against Parma that followed their 1-0 triumph at Catania.
Cagliari, who end the year at home to AC Milan on Tuesday, lie ninth in the standings.
Rivals Chievo lost 2-1 at Udinese last time out to see their winless run extend to three games.
The result dropped Domenico Di Carlo's side to 15th place, two points behind Cagliari.
Fortunately for Di Carlo, his side have been more productive at home than on the road this season.
The Flying Donkeys have clinched 12 of their 16 points at home, while they have conceded one defeat at the Bentegodi stadium this season.
"We have to focus on the positives, try to learn from our mistakes and prepare in the best possible way for our next game," Di Carlo said.
Di Carlo will have all of his players available with the exception of injured striker Luca Rigoni.
- Tag:
Photos
More»
Meet Eva Murati, the glamorous UCL presenter
Friday April 26 2024
[PICTURE SPECIAL] Brighton 0 - 4 Manchester City
Friday April 26 2024
Meet Jude Bellingham's stunning girlfriend Laura
Thursday April 25 2024
Your Say