Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini was delighted with victory over Genoa.

The Oribici thrashed Gasperini's former club 5-0.

“It was a strange day for me, as on the one hand so many people showed me affection, but on the other there was this result," Gasp told Sky Sport Italia.

“It was important for us to win and continue our march, as we took a big step towards Europe. The game took a different turn after Mauricio Pinilla was sent off, as against 10 men it became easier."

Atalanta saw Leonardo Spinazzola and Andrea Petagna make their senior Italy debuts this week in a 2-1 friendly away to the Netherlands.

“It's a great result that so many of our young players have become internationals, which reflects how well the season has gone. It's only possible if they already have talent, otherwise there's little you can do.

“We achieved a balance in defence and attack, the team is solid and that has been the case throughout the last few months, with the notable exception of the Inter game."