Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Italiano insists he wasn't reason for Franck Ribery's departure.

The French veteran left over the summer, eventually joining promoted Salernitana.

“He was not a Fiorentina player when I arrived. The decision had already been taken," Italiano said at a press conference.

“He is a champion and he will remain to be so. One can only speak highly of one of the phenomenons of world football.

“We want the three points, like any other match," Italiano continued.

“We need to approach the match against Salernitana well. We have a chance to get points in front of our fans and need to show maturity. The atmosphere is good and we've worked well. I hope it shows on the pitch tomorrow.

“We need to have no limits, grow, improve, do better. What we have done so far is in the past.

“I have always been convinced of the qualities of this group of players. There are many youngsters and they can improve. We need to grow still, in terms of maturity and mentality."