Serse Cosmi remains convinced that Lecce can avoid relegation and has told his players not to be daunted by the gap that has opened up.
Lecce boss targets 40 points to avoid relegation
Serse Cosmi remains convinced that Lecce can avoid relegation and has told his players not to be daunted by the gap that has opened up to leave them six points from safety.
Lecce have struggled for consistency all season and went down to a 2-0 defeat at AC Milan on Sunday to further dent their survival hopes.
However, Cosmi is refusing to stay too downbeat and is looking to get back on track with a win over Palermo this weekend.
"As before the game with Siena, I now again have the feeling next Sunday's match with Palermo can be a turning point," he said.
"We were missing many key players against Milan and I don't like whining, but you have to be objective too.
Cut-off point
"Palermo will be totally different, as this is a very complicated encounter and we are in a situation where we are forced to win.
"When you're in these circumstances, it's possible anxiety and tension can grow, but we mustn't make that mistake."
Lecce's current tally for the season stands at 25 points from 27 games, and Cosmi recognises they will have to improve in their final 11 fixtures.
He said: "Personally, I'd be happy to sign on right now to reach 40-41 points, which I believe will be the cut-off point for safety.
"Looking at the table, we must not make the mistake of thinking six points are an abyss."
