Brillante’s brilliant fitness impresses Italians

1 min read 21 July 2014

Josh Brillante could be closer to making his Serie A debut than first expected, with Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Montella declaring the young Australian to be 'physically ready'.

The 21-year-old, selected in Ange Postecoglou's initial World Cup training squad, swapped the Newcastle Jets for Tuscany earlier this month in an exciting move for the former Gold Coast United youngster.

It was thought that Brillante might face a wait to force his way into contention at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

However, speaking ahead of his team's departure for a pre-season tour of South America, Montella talked up his young Socceroo recruit.

"Josh Brillante is ready physically and I consider him to be a nice surprise," he told a press conference.

Fiorentina tackle Estudiantes next weekend, before further friendlies against Palmeiras and Universitario.