Montella: 'My bet with the ref'

By Football Italia staff

Vincenzo Montella praised Fiorentina’s mentality and belief to come back from 2-0 down with 10 men against Milan, but revealed what he said to the referee.

The Viola saw Nenad Tomovic controversially sent off before the break for an elbow on Stephan El Shaarawy that appeared to be involuntary.

“We were almost fortunate at the end!” he laughed after receiving two late penalties in the 2-2 draw.

“I do not talk about referees. I will only say that at half-time I spoke to Tagliavento and we made a bet that whoever was wrong about the Tomovic incident would buy the other dinner. He was convinced that he was right, but I think I won the bet.

“I think the mentality we are forming this season helped us to have belief and courage, even when 2-0 down in a decisive moment of the match. There was a great reaction and I saw a team that strongly believed in this comeback against a very talented side, even with 10 men.”

Stevan Jovetic was in the starting XI after a thigh injury, but hobbled off in the first half.

“He tried and he seemed to be in good shape. I wanted to run the risk, as I knew how important this game was for us. We hope it’s not too serious.

“Nobody made a mistake with Jovetic. Everyone evaluated the situation and took their own share of the risks and responsibility, so there is no problem.”

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