Sampdoria president Riccardo Garrone admits his table-topping team has surprised him.

"I have to admit that I didn't expect to see such a spectacular Doria. Honestly, I didn't see it coming," said Garrone.

"Our position in the table is beautiful, but we need to stay down to earth and continue to work as we have done so far, hoping to remain in the top 10."

Garrone also reserved special praise for several of his players, as well as the coaching staff.

"Angelo Palombo and Giampaolo Pazzini are doing really well, they are great players. Coach Luigi Del Neri and all his staff are doing a great job too.

"We hope Marcello Lippi will call up Antonio Cassano. Today even Fabio Capello mentioned him."