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Prandelli prepares Bilbao test Saturday 18 August, 2007

Fiorentina face Athletic Bilbao this evening and Coach Cesare Prandelli expects it to be a real test of character.

“We know that we will be put under pressure in Bilbao, but we have to start getting into the competitive match tempo,” said the tactician.

“We are facing a tough and important club, so this is a warm-up for what awaits us in Europe and Serie A. I want to see a Fiorentina of character that knows what to do on the field, combining moments of pace with greater concentration, but always keeping organised.”

Prandelli has already named his starting XI for the game, with Massimo Gobbi, Adrian Mutu and Giampaolo Pazzini upfront.

Christian Vieri, Franco Semioli, Martin Jorgensen and new signing Osvaldo have stayed behind in Florence for specialist fitness training.

“These friendly tests have been useful to understand that in moments of difficulty we do have some alternative tactical systems. For example, we are currently missing three wide players, so I tried Kuzmanovic there.”

The Viola were held back by their 15-point Calciopoli penalty last season, but still qualified for the UEFA Cup and must now prepare for their return to the continent.

“We have strengthened our character as a team and that is crucial,” added Prandelli. “We are proud to say we have improved the capabilities of our players.”

The starting XI against Athletic Bilbao this evening will be: Frey, Potenza, Pasqual, Dainelli, Gamberini, Pazienza, Donadel, Kuzmanovic, Gobbi, Mutu, Pazzini.

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