Vladimir Petkovic is keeping his cards close to his chest against Mura 05, but warned Lazio” data-scaytid=”32″>Lazio “cannot get it wrong” in the Europa League play-off.
Vladimir Petkovic is keeping his cards close to his chest against Mura 05, but warned Lazio “cannot get it wrong” in the Europa League play-off.
The Biancocelesti were jeered off the field during their presentation ceremony at the Stadio Olimpico after a series of shock pre-season defeats, but got back on track following a 2-1 win over Malmo.
“I think the Malmo game is a starting point and we must begin from that performance, repeating the good things and trying to further improve,” said the Coach.
“The first official match of the season is always the hardest to predict. We are in Europe and cannot get it wrong at this level. We must be focused from the first to the last minute.
“Of course my motivation is normal, as I am aware of how important it is to win tomorrow so we can have the belief to further build on that work.”
Petkovic is known for the 4-3-3 system, but refused to give clues as to his line-up against the Slovenians.
“The system is not as important as you think it is,” he told journalists in the Press conference.
“It is true that in the last friendly we played with 4-3-3, but we also varied it around a lot. At times we used the 4-1-4-1, or the 4-5-1.
“I think it’s important to adapt and keep things variable, as that can be a key quality for our side. The system is not as precious as the idea of football.
“Hernanes played in a slightly more advanced role against Malmo. The important thing is that Hernanes is central to the play, as when he is on form then he can make the difference.
“It is not true that we play with only Miroslav Klose as striker. I want three or four players attacking. I demand greater vivacity in midfield and players who push forward, with or without the ball.”