Genoa coach Gian Piero Gasperini retains hope of leading the club in the Europa League next season.

Genoa have been denied a UEFA licence, but are appealing the decision.

"Earning a European qualification spot is a reward for the whole season, for the spirit of these lads and the recognition from the fans on Saturday night was something I hadn't seen for a long time," Gasp told Sky Sport Italia.

"Now we have to wait for the result of the appeal and hope it goes well, but regardless of what happens, this remains an extraordinary season.

"The team has grown beyond all expectations, above all in terms of the quality of our football, as we didn't expect to step up so quickly either.

"Of course for Genoa this is a typical scenario. The club often goes for players who need to rediscover themselves, they do brilliantly and then it becomes difficult to keep hold of them."