MONTELLA URGES TURKEY TO STAY CALM AHEAD OF 24-YEAR WORLD CUP RETURN.

Turkey coach Vincenzo Montella has called on his players to control their emotions
and focus on performance as they prepare for their first World Cup appearance in 24
years against Australia in Vancouver.

Turkey last featured at the tournament in 2002, when they finished third, and
Montella admitted the long-awaited return has created huge anticipation within the
squad.

“This is the day before something we have been waiting for 24 years,” he said. “We
are very emotional, and we trust we are going to do well.”

“We know how many challenges there are in the World Cup, but we want to enjoy it
and be proud, and make our nation proud.”

He stressed the importance of starting well in Group D, which also includes the
United States and Paraguay.

“The first game is always the most important,” he said. “It doesn’t decide everything,
but it can help the path of the team.”

Montella also moved to ease pressure on his squad, insisting the players should not
feel burdened by Turkey’s long absence from the tournament.

“I like telling my players that it is not their fault Turkey was not at the World Cup for
24 years,” he said. “But they can be proud to be here again. Now they need to play
at their best and avoid thinking about other things.”

The Italian coach added that freedom and focus will be key if Turkey is to perform
at their best.

“I would like them to go out and play with their own strengths and abilities,” he said.

“When they play together, feeling free and happy, that’s when they give their best.”