Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini admitted some relief after their 2-0 win at Sampdoria.

Ruslan Malinovskyi and Robin Gosens struck the goals for the visitors.

“It wasn't an easy game. We suffered in the first part, but we created some good opportunities. We improved throughout the game and we did well once we scored the opener," Gasperini told DAZN after the Marassi clash.

“Serie A is a balanced league and it's always difficult to face these kinds of teams. These games are complicated and it happens not to win all of them. It's a problem we share with other clubs," the coach added.

“You can't dominate for 90 minutes, but we played a very nice game and we deserved to win."

Josip Ilicic came off the bench in the second half, but this time Gasperini was happy with his approach.

“Ilicic did well. He even played as a centre forward. I am always happy with him, but he can't play every game. It's crucial that he feels well."