Federico Marchetti has insisted that he has never been distracted by transfer rumours, but he fails to commit long term to Lazio.

The goalkeeper has struggled for form and fitness this season and, having lost his first-team shirt over winter, was linked with a move away.

For the 31-year-old, though, the suggestion that his form suffered amid speculation on a future away from the Aquile hit a nerve.

Federico Marchetti has insisted that he has never been distracted by transfer rumours, but he fails to commit long term to Lazio.

The goalkeeper has struggled for form and fitness this season and, having lost his first-team shirt over winter, was linked with a move away.

For the 31-year-old, though, the suggestion that his form suffered amid speculation on a future away from the Aquile hit a nerve.

“What has caused me most trouble was the aggression in thinking that I was leaving in January, that I was distracted by the rumours on the market,” responded Marchetti to Sky Sport Italia this week.

“I have a contract with Lazio. I have always thought to do well here and of the project with this team. I have never been affected nor have I ever thought about other things outside the field of play.

“Where is my future? My goal is to finish this season well, then we shall see.

“Does it all depend on reaching Europe? Certainly we are talking about an important milestone for Lazio, a prestigious one.

“To achieve it or not does not change my options, but I do not think this concerns me. I am thinking only to finishing well this year.”

Marchetti’s form this season has been below par and seen him lose his spot in Cesare Prandelli’s plans with the Italian national team.

“Perhaps I have made fewer saves than others this season, but the important thing is to give everything.

“Certainly this has been a tough season, especially from December onwards. I had a number of physical problems that did not allow me to train with continuity.

“And when you get to the field without continuity, it is more difficult to provide a good performance.

“Lazio’s season so far? The critics do not like anyone, but analysing the season is normal and last year we did do better, both in European qualification and for the Coppa Italia victory.

“This year the results and enthusiasm have fallen short. That is part of the job, but you always try to give your best.”

Byrob

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