Sampdoria defender Paolo Sammarco insists they're a better team than their current 17th placing.

"To be honest I expected a better start to the season but we aren't lacking the desire to turn things around," Sammarco asserted.

"We are short on points, but the only game we really messed up was the one against Atalanta. In all the others we have shown intensity and weren't inferior to anyone.

"The international break was very important - we have restored the physical and mental energy that we used up and some injured players have returned."

Sammarco concluded by discussing the special significance of returning to his old stomping ground.

"It's a part of my past and that is always there," he admitted.

"However, I am a Sampdoria player and I am happy to play for Doria and I will treat this game like any other."