Kvaratskhelia returns for Napoli clash with Genoa
Napoli has been handed an injury boost ahead of its trip to Genoa in Serie A, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia back in the squad.
The Georgian sustained a sprain in his right knee during Napoli's loss to Lazio earlier this month, but his recovery has been effective, and he is ready for Sunday's (AEDT) game.
Napoli is second with 35 points, two behind leader Atalanta, with Kvaratskhelia contributing five goals and three assists in 15 Serie A appearances for Napoli this season.
"Kvara trained with us yesterday and looked more relaxed today. He’s available, and it's an important recovery for us," coach Antonio Conte revealed.
Since the beginning of September, Napoli has conceded only two goals in away games, keeping five clean sheets. In the big five European leagues in this period, only Fiorentina, Inter Milan and Real Sociedad have registered as many clean sheets in away games.
The Napoli boss stressed that the team's recent good run is built on solid foundations and hard work, highlighting his belief in the players' ability to improve, even after setbacks.
"Shortcuts to success are ephemeral," he said.
"To build something important, you need solid foundations. Great work can shorten the path, but without those foundations, success doesn't last.
"I always repeat that I have faith in these guys because I see them every day. Then you can't always win. You stumble, but even in the stumble they will try to improve."
Conte reaffirmed his trust in the squad's growth while leaving January transfer decisions to the club.
"For my part, I have maximum confidence in the boys, I can go to war with them," Conte said. "Sporting war. They are real men and boys who grow and it shows, and I am very happy about this.
"Let me be clear. I am very calm, but if credible opportunities arise – because you hear so many things – and the club decides or wants to make changes, then we'll see."
Genoa has not conceded any goals in its past three league games, but it has not kept four clean sheets in a row since February to March 2022.
Coach Patrick Vieira is also yet to lose, going unbeaten in his first four games in charge.
Conte acknowledged the difficulty of facing Genoa at Luigi Ferraris Stadium.
"It’s a classic English-style stadium, with fans right on top of you," he added. "It creates a hot atmosphere, but we’ll stick to our game plan and face whatever comes with attention to detail and collaboration."
