Pozzo backs Udinese´s European chances

Udinese supremo Giampaolo Pozzo said his side can handle the loss of star players and has backed his side’s Champions League ambitions.

The Serie A club finished in an impressive third position last year and despite losing some star players, Pozzo said they will manage without them.

He told Sky Sport Italia: “Last year against Arsenal we were unlucky, this year I am confident. It would be a real shame to miss a chance like this.

“Even though we lost two important players in Isla and Asamoah, we have replaced them well. In the preliminaries you also need luck, but the squad has the will and the potential to reach the group stages.”

Pozzo, who also has controlling stakes in England and Spain with Watford and Granada, has also heaped praise on club legend Antonio Di Natale, who is entering his ninth season at the club.

“He’s a player who deserves a lot for what he has done for this team. He is very fond of these colours and this club, and has always been consistent,” he said.

“He has received many offers but never gave up and remained here. He is our pride and our Bandiera. For the club, as for Di Natale, it’s a great honour playing in the Champions League.”