SOCCER: Turkey's Montella urges respect for players after World Cup exit

INGLEWOOD, California — Vincenzo Montella urged fans and media on Wednesday to show greater respect toward his players, saying the team had given everything despite a disappointing World Cup campaign and should not be subjected to personal attacks.

Speaking a day before Turkey’s final Group D match against tournament co-hosts the United States, Montella defended a squad already eliminated after defeats to Australia and Paraguay.

“I really ask you to respect them because they are our boys, they are our players, they are the future of football,” Montella told reporters.

The coach said many of the same players had helped Turkey return to the World Cup for the first time in 24 years and had delivered several strong performances during his nearly three years in charge.

While acknowledging the team’s shortcomings, Montella stressed that criticism should remain constructive rather than targeted at individuals.

“I’ve seen personal attacks that I cannot accept,” he said.

Montella added that Turkey had created chances and ranked highly in several attacking metrics during the tournament, even if those performances had not translated into results.

“We could do something more, we could do better, but we tried with all our heart, with all our strength,” he said.

The 52-year-old also signaled his intention to remain in charge, saying he would continue working with the same commitment moving forward.

Looking ahead to Thursday’s match, Montella said the United States would present a different challenge compared with Turkey’s previous opponents, describing the co-hosts as a possession-oriented and well-organized side.

“It will be a very difficult game,” he said. “Probably one of the most difficult games.” -Reporting by Hatem Maher and Ed WhiteEditing by Toby Davis/Reuters