The Viola have won five of their first 10 games, raising hopes of a return to Europe's elite.

“Montella is sending a clear message to Italian football,” he told Radio Lady. “The entire team playing short, passing football is something new in Italy – you do not see any other team doing the same thing.

“Fiorentina, with the squad they've got, must aim for the Champions League. If a few new names arrive in January, I think that's a real possibility.”