Fiorentina midfielder Riccardo Montolivo has been backed by former Parma coach Nevio Scala to the revelation of Serie A this season.

According to football-italia.net, Scala thinks the 24-year-old will come out of age and credited Cristiano Zanetti's influence.

“Montolivo is a player I really like,” stated Scala. “I think this year will be the one which will see him finally mature.

“I’m not surprised by his recent important and decisive plays. The fact that he is now playing alongside a player like Zanetti has given him some responsibility.

“They are now the perfect combination, one of a great European club.”