Salernitana director Walter Sabatini says their Serie A survival hopes remain alive after their 1-1 draw with Cagliari.

Simone Verdi converted an injury-time penalty to put Salernitana ahead, but Cagliari found an equaliser Giorgio Altare's header on 99 minutes.

“There is huge disappointment, but at the same time we know that we survived," Sabatini told DAZN.

“Nobody expected us to be in this position, as they all considered us to be relegated already, so just being able to play it was a privilege.

“It's disappointing because we could've sealed it today, but now we have a week to prepare against Empoli, a side who play some of the best football in Serie A.

“We have always fought hard and this was just a stumble, we are ready to overcome it. This has always been a good squad and proved itself, despite some frankly unkind criticism."

He added, "Being able to play for safety with two rounds left is an honour, because we survived everyone declaring our premature demise.

“I am not interested in personal gratification, but in securing Salernitana's safety for these people, these fans and this city. Quote aside from this evening's result, Salernitana are achieving a miracle, or at least something totally unexpected. We are very proud, but we know it's not over."