Gabriele Cioffi was keen to stress that Saturday's defeat to Spezia was not down to his players easing off after securing their top-flight status with few weeks to spare
“This team is not lacking in motivation,” the coach said at his post-match press conference in wake of the 3-2 reverse at Dacia Arena. “We wanted to win and play well but sadly we didn't manage either today. We lost our shape and weren't quick enough to the second balls. We did some good things before taking the lead but then little by little we lost our way. We can't afford to create lots and concede lots. Otherwise it's like tossing a coin – sometimes it lands on your side but sometimes it doesn't.”
The coach then commented on his experience in the Udinese dugout so far and the possibility of him continuing next season.
“I've learnt so much. I've been able to hone my ideas and I've overcome tests. Today's game aside, all in all I think we can say we've done well.
“If the director says we're a close to agreeing for next season, then you can take his word for it.”
16-year-old Simone Pafundi became the first player born in 2006 to be named in a Serie A matchday squad – a sign that Udinese will continue to promote youth.
“It's in the club's DNA,” Cioffi explained. “It's reward for him as he's been training with us for two or three months and he's a born footballer. The only difference between him and the professionals is on a physical level. He's got the talent and the desire. I wanted to give him a few minutes today but it wasn't possible.”
Cioffi also expressed his gratitude to the hordes of fans who came to watch the team's last home game of the season. “They were really passionate today and it was great to see. We wanted to win for them and we had the right attitude but sometimes 100% is not enough. There are moments in the game when you need to show up and we didn't.
“Now we have a week to prepare for the game against Salernitana and it's going to be a real battle.”
Tenth place is now out of reach but the team still have the chance of surpassing the 45-point mark for the first time in nine years – a target Cioffi says Udinese will chase on the final day of the season.
“I expect the lads to respond with desire and determination and do what we wanted to do today but couldn't through our own fault – not just the players, but me, the staff, everyone.”