Conte commends Napoli´s ´spirit and commitment´ against ´cautious´ Frankfurt

Antonio Conte praised Napoli’s “spirit and commitment”, despite their goalless draw with Eintracht Frankfurt.

The reigning Serie A champions drew a second successive blank, following their 0-0 stalemate with Como last weekend, despite controlling large periods of the clash at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

Napoli registered 18 shots on goal, their highest tally in a Champions League home game in which they have failed to score.

The Partenopei have also recorded back-to-back home draws in all competitions in the same season for the first time since 2010 under Walter Mazzarri.

“We had some big chances, in my opinion, but I can’t blame the lads for the spirit and commitment they put in,” Conte told Sky via TMW.

“Let’s say [Frankfurt] were a bit too cautious. People talk about attacking football, European football, and we respect everyone. Had we played the same way in Germany, they would have spoken about old football, Catenaccio [defensive tactics] and counter-attacks.

“There’s maximum respect. Let’s say we are good teachers anyway. We are trying to go forward at a footballing level and offer something European, dominating the game and making an important impression.”

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The stalemate came at the end of a busy period for Napoli, whose lengthy injury list includes the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, Alex Meret and Leonardo Spinazzola, while Lorenzo Lucca missed out through suspension.

“We must all understand that it’s more difficult for the players, for the doctors and for me to prepare for one game every three days,” Conte continued.

“There are injuries and problems that we are facing in the best way. It’s not fair to mention those who are absent. I think the lads are still doing very well.

“We have to face a new situation this season, not just on the pitch, but especially off the field. The players don’t train the same way, so we must manage them in the best way, in every aspect.

“I think the lads have given their all. We have the ambition to grow and gain experience this season, because there are more games than last season. You can be ambitious, but there’s a path to follow.”