APPIANO GENTILE - Marco Andreolli made his long-awaited return to first-team action earlier in a friendly against Lugano in Appiano Gentile. The defender endured a sustained spell on the sidelines after injuring his Achilles on 21 November 2015. Andreolli told Mediaset Premium post-match about how it feels to be back: "It was a good test for those of us who are at Appiano Gentile working with the coach," he told the national broadcaster.
"I haven't had an easy time of it because I suffered an awkward injury, so it's important for me to get minutes under my belt. I thank all of the staff who work here and have helped me over the last few months to get fit again. I'd also like to thank Zanetti who had experienced the same injury and gave me his advice."
Andreolli also gave his thoughts on the matchwinner, Gabigol, who decided matters from the penalty spot: "He's here because he's got real ability. He's young and needs time to settle in and get to know the Italian game."
The Italian finished by discussing his side's targets for the campaign: "We'll see how far we can go. We have a lot of work to do but we've already proven that we can beat anyone provided we approach the game in the right way."
