Udinese’s Runjaic: “We need organisation and conviction in challenging times”

Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic addressed the media ahead of the team’s upcoming match against Empoli, emphasizing the need for conviction and organization during a challenging period for the club.

Runjaic acknowledged that the team is going through a phase where points are hard to come by, but stressed the importance of maintaining the right approach. “There are moments in the season when points don’t come, we need to know how to face them. We have all the means to play a good game,” he stated.

The coach highlighted the strengths of their upcoming opponents, Empoli, noting their solid defense and reliance on long balls to push players forward. He emphasized that Udinese must match Empoli’s intensity and organization to have a good chance of securing points.

Addressing the team’s injury concerns, Runjaic confirmed that Payero would be unavailable for 2-3 weeks following a training ground collision. However, he expressed optimism about the return of players like Ekkelenkamp and Atta from international duty.

Runjaic also touched on the progress of Alexis Sanchez, who is currently training individually. “Alexis is improving. There are times in the season when points don’t come, you have to know how to face them,” he said, urging patience with the player’s recovery.

The coach praised the potential of returning players like Kristensen and newcomer Solet, highlighting their qualities and the depth they add to the squad. He emphasized the importance of integrating these players effectively and maintaining the right atmosphere in training.

Reflecting on recent performances, Runjaic admitted to mistakes in the Roma game and the second half against Venezia but insisted that the team had played well in other matches. He expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to improve in various phases of the game in upcoming fixtures.

When asked about tactical considerations, including the possibility of playing with two strikers, Runjaic kept his cards close to his chest. “I can’t say yet how we’ll play against Empoli. The possibilities are diverse,” he stated, emphasizing that decisions would be based on match dynamics and specific situations.

The coach also addressed the competition for places in the squad, particularly in the attacking positions. He stressed the importance of players showing their full potential in training and acknowledged the strong competition between forwards like Thauvin, Davis, and Iker Bravo.

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