Montella calls for calm

Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Montella has warned his team not to get carried away with their strong start to the Serie A campaign.

The 38-year-old told a press conference he was proud of his side’s start to the season, but made it clear he is not underestimating the challenge posed by Inter Milan ahead of their clash on Sunday.

“It is wonderful to see your team playing with such character,” he said.

“However, it will be important to see how the team reacts after the euphoria and enthusiasm. I hope we won’t underestimate this test or lose concentration.

“Don’t forget Fiorentina have not picked up points in Milan for 10 years and that can be an added motivation.

“We must not start out with arrogance. Inter are a very experienced side with excellent individual talents. We need to play with intensity.”

The Fiorentina boss also spoke of his friendship with Inter coach Andrea Stramaccioni and said he did not agree with some of the criticism his counterpart had received.

“He is a friend and we’ve worked together,” Montella said.

“In football, as in every area of work, you are often judged and if he was chosen to be coach of Inter then he must have all the qualities for that role. It is a constant risk for everyone who makes decisions.”