[dukeofdavinci]

Cuper keeps his cool Tuesday 18 March, 2008

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Hector Cuper is ready for his Tardini debut, but is eager to keep a hold of his emotions in this troubled time for Parma.

He made his first appearance on the Gialloblu bench in last week’s 1-1 draw away to Livorno, a result that left them just one point clear of the relegation zone.

“Emotions must be controlled and a balance kept. We could talk about all my feelings at being back in Italy, but without doubt not on the eve of an important game, as I cannot afford it,” said the former Inter Coach who had left Serie A in 2002.

“I must be balanced, just as I ask my players to be. In order to have the confidence of everyone I have to give off an air of character and certainty. It is balance that allows me to do this.”

Parma are in dire straits and Cuper was drafted in after the dismissal of Coach Domenico Di Carlo.

“We returned from Livorno with a point. It’s not much, but it was important to get off the mark to increase confidence within the squad.

“To climb up the table quickly we need a victory, but it is not easy. In order to get there we have to work very hard, especially as Palermo are tough opponents.

“Our intention is to win the match – whether we are home or away is the same for me, because our mentality must not change.”

It would be quite a turnaround for the Ducali, who are without a single away win all season, picking up just six points in 14 games.

“Victory – this is what I ask of all the players. The idea is to be able to play for a whole 90 minutes the way we did the first 25 of the second half against Livorno.

“I know it won’t be easy, but we must always improve and then, hopefully, achieve safety.”

Parma squad: Bucci, Pavarini, Petr; Antonelli, Castellini, Couto, Falcone, Paci, Zenoni; Dessena, Gasbarroni, Mariga, Morrone, Parravicini; Morfeo, Budan, Corradi, Lucarelli, Reginaldo

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