[Marcelo]

Cassani: We're back on track Thursday 7 February, 2008

Palermo defender Mattia Cassani hopes to begin a run of first-team football by playing against Torino and believes the Rosanero are on the up.

Cassani has been forced to play second fiddle since arriving from Verona in 2006 and has made just five starts this term.

“I am always at the Coach’s disposal and the absence of Cristian Zaccardo on Sunday could help my chances of getting a spot on the right,” he explained.

”The fact that Cristian hasn’t been used in the middle very much has meant that I have been used less.

“I didn’t play much under Stefano Colantuono, but with Francesco Guidolin I have had more time on the pitch, even if mostly as a substitute.

“It’s not easy to play well when you come on during a game – you need to be mentally strong and always try and give your best.”

Palermo ended a miserable run with a 1-0 win over Livorno last weekend and Cassani is adamant that they have what it takes to climb the ladder.

“We have the quality to get a win over Torino,” he maintained. “We will try and be more consistent and eliminate the lapses that plagued the first half of the season.

“This year’s championship is very even. The games are tight and the sides that are fighting against relegation can trouble those at the top. We can put together a good run and move towards our objective.”

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